Mikhail Gorbachev is remembered as the last leader of the Soviet Union before its dissolution in 1991. His policies of **glasnost** (openness) and **perestroika** (restructuring) sought to reform the Soviet system, promoting greater transparency and reforming the economy. Gorbachev's leadership was pivotal in easing Cold War tensions through dialogue with Western leaders, contributing to arms reduction treaties. However, internal resistance and economic challenges ultimately led to the collapse of the Soviet Union in December 1991. He remains a complex figure, symbolizing both the end of communism in Eastern Europe and efforts for reform.