Looking at how Mikhail Gorbachevs policies changed the Soviet Union would you consider him a patriot or in sense subversive Explain your answer?

Whether Mikhail Gorbachev's policies changed the Soviet Union considered a patriot or subversive can be viewed from different perspectives. Supporters of Gorbachev often regard his policies as patriotic due to his contribution to the democratization and openness (glasnost) of the Soviet Union. These reforms allowed for greater political participation, freedom of speech and the press, and the relaxation of censorship. By introducing economic restructuring (perestroika), Gorbachev aimed to modernise the Soviet economy and increase efficiency. Additionally, he made significant efforts to improve international relations and reduce tensions through arms control agreements, such as the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) with the United States.

On the other hand, some critics argue that Gorbachev's policies ultimately contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. The decentralisation of power through his reforms may have weakened central control and inadvertently fueled separatist sentiments among various republics within the Soviet Union. The economic restructuring had mixed results, with some industries struggling to adapt and leading to economic hardships for citizens. Additionally, Gorbachev's foreign policies, such as his withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan, and his conciliatory approach towards Western countries, were seen by some as a deviation from traditional Soviet stances and a weakening of the country's global standing.

Therefore, assessing Gorbachev's role as either a patriot or a subversive is complex and requires considering multiple factors. Interpretations may differ depending on political viewpoints, historical contexts, and individual experiences during that period.