Boris Yeltsin

Definition

Boris Yeltsin was the first President of the Russian Federation, serving from 1991 to 1999, and played a crucial role in the transition from Soviet rule to a more market-oriented economy. He is best known for his leadership during the August Coup of 1991, where he stood against hardline communists, symbolizing a significant shift towards democracy and reforms in Russia, which ultimately contributed to the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Yeltsin was a prominent figure in opposing the August Coup of 1991, famously delivering a speech from atop a tank outside the Russian White House, rallying citizens to resist the coup leaders.
2. After the coup failed, Yeltsin pushed for rapid economic reforms known as 'shock therapy,' which aimed to transition Russia quickly from a command economy to a capitalist market economy.
3. His presidency faced significant challenges, including widespread poverty, hyperinflation, and political unrest, leading to public dissatisfaction and protests against his government.
4. In December 1991, Yeltsin announced the dissolution of the Soviet Union and became the first leader of an independent Russia, marking a historic moment in world history.
5. Yeltsin's tenure ended with his resignation on December 31, 1999, leaving behind a mixed legacy characterized by both democratic advances and significant economic turmoil.

Review Questions

• How did Boris Yeltsin's actions during the August Coup influence public perception of his leadership?
  • Boris Yeltsin's decisive stand during the August Coup significantly bolstered his image as a champion of democracy. By opposing hardline communists and rallying citizens from atop a tank outside the Russian White House, he positioned himself as a leader committed to reform and change. This moment galvanized public support and solidified his role as a key figure in Russia's transition away from Soviet rule.
• Evaluate the economic policies Yeltsin implemented after the fall of the Soviet Union and their impact on Russian society.
  • Yeltsin's economic policies focused on 'shock therapy,' which aimed to rapidly transition Russia from a state-controlled economy to a free market. While these reforms led to initial economic growth and increased foreign investment, they also resulted in severe inflation, unemployment, and widening inequality. Many citizens faced hardship during this transition, leading to public discontent and criticism of Yeltsin's leadership.
• Assess Yeltsin's legacy in terms of democracy and governance in Russia after his presidency ended.
  • Boris Yeltsin's legacy is complex; he played a pivotal role in dismantling Soviet authoritarianism and initiating democratic reforms. However, his presidency also set a precedent for political instability and challenges that would shape Russia's governance. After his resignation, many of the democratic institutions struggled, and subsequent leaders would navigate between democratic principles and authoritarian tendencies. This duality continues to influence Russia's political landscape today.

Related terms

Perestroika: A series of political and economic reforms initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev in the mid-1980s aimed at restructuring the Soviet economy and political system.

Glasnost: A policy introduced by Gorbachev that called for increased transparency and openness in government institutions and activities, which significantly changed the political landscape in the Soviet Union.

Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS): An organization formed after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, consisting of several former Soviet republics that aimed to foster cooperation and coordination in various sectors.