The Quality of Gorbachev's Leadership

Understanding Gorbachev: Diverse Perspectives

“…These and other such actions created a perception among most Western analysts that Gorbachev was "moving to the right." Peter Reddaway (Reddaway, 1990) analyzed the early months of this trend, and anticipated some of its subsequent features. His identification of changes in personnel, mood, and political assertiveness to the right of Gorbachev led him to conclude that other important shifts were probably in the offing.…”

Khrushchev and Gorbachev as Reformers: A Comparison

“…The right felt that things had gone too far, while the left believed that on the most contentious issues -confederalism, multipartyism, Article 6 of the constitution and radical economic reform -Gorbachev gave way only slowly, grudgingly, often partially and after initial opposition, chiefly because of his desire to bring the CPSU apparat along in his wake. 48 The nature of Gorbachev's vision of a reformed USSR remains 'frustratingly elusive'. 49 This is no wonder: Gorbachev was increasingly driven not by optimism but by desperation.…”