On October 14, 1975, Mikhail Gorbachev was born in Privolnoye, Russia. He would later become the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union and the last leader of the Soviet Union, playing a pivotal role in ending the Cold War.

Gorbachev grew up in a peasant family in the Stavropol region of Russia. He was known for his intelligence and charisma, which helped him rise through the ranks of the Communist Party.

Gorbachev's policies of Glasnost (openness) and Perestroika (restructuring) transformed Soviet society, allowing for more transparency and movement towards a market economy. This led to significant changes in Eastern Europe and the fall of the Iron Curtain.

The international community responded positively to Gorbachev's reforms, seeing him as a reformer rather than a hardliner. His approach helped reduce tensions between the U.S. and the USSR, culminating in major disarmament treaties.

Interestingly, Gorbachev is also known for his a distinctive birthmark on his bald head, which has become something of a symbol associated with him throughout the years.

In his later years, Gorbachev has been seen as a controversial figure in Russia, with many viewing his reforms as having contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union, which led to economic turmoil.

Gorbachev is not just a politician; he has also appeared in various commercials and media campaigns, including an ad for pizza in 2006, showcasing his broad cultural impact.

He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 for his efforts to end the Cold War, making him one of the few leaders to be recognized globally for such diplomatic work, despite his controversial reputation in Russia.

Considering Gorbachev's significant influence, how do you feel about leaders who try to implement major reforms in times of national uncertainty?

Considering Gorbachev's significant influence, how do you feel about leaders who try to implement major reforms in times of national uncertainty?