Frontline Season 10 Episode 12 After Gorbachev's USSR

After Gorbachev's USSR is the 12th episode of the 10th season of the investigative documentary series Frontline. This episode takes a deep dive into the aftermath of the fall of the Soviet Union and Gorbachev's role in it.

The episode highlights the significant changes that were taking place in the former Soviet Union in the early 90s, such as the rise of Boris Yeltsin, the adoption of new laws, the privatization of industries, and the increasing influence of the United States. The viewer gets an insider's look at how Gorbachev's reforms paved the way for the downfall of the Soviet Union.

From interviews with citizens, political commentators, and historians, the show examines the role of Gorbachev in the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the process of decentralization that he implemented. The documentary also explores the effects of the decentralization policy that Gorbachev put in place, such as the emergence of new political figures and regional conflicts.

One of the main focuses of the episode is the shifting power balances between the different republics in the Soviet Union. The documentary presents the perspective of young politicians and activists in the Baltic republics who wanted to engage with the West and declare their independence from the Soviet Union. Gorbachev's response to those calls for independence and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union is discussed in the episode.

Another key topic addressed in this episode is the impact of the Soviet Union's collapse on the international stage and the global balance of power. The documentary highlights the views of experts and political commentators who saw the fall of the Soviet Union as a major shift in the geopolitics of the world, which would have far-reaching consequences.

As with all episodes of Frontline, the viewer is presented with a comprehensive and nuanced view of the topic being discussed. The documentary invites the audience to consider the complexity of the issues and the impact they continue to have today.

Overall, After Gorbachev's USSR offers an insightful and thought-provoking look at the historic events that took place in the wake of the Soviet Union's collapse.