The difference between glasnost and perestroika is
A. Glasnost was a program of reforms in Eastern Europe; perestroika was a program of reforms in the Soviet Union.
B. Perestroika created greater freedom of expression; glasnost reformed the government and economy
C. Perestroika was a program of reforms in Eastern Europe, glasnost was a programs of reforms in the Soviet Union.
D. Glasnost created greater freedom of expression; perestroika reformed the government and economy.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is:
D. Glasnost created greater freedom of expression; perestroika reformed the government and economy.
Explanation:
Glasnost and perestroika were two key policies introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev during his leadership of the Soviet Union in the mid-1980s. These policies played pivotal roles in reshaping the political, social, and economic landscape of the Soviet Union, although they focused on different areas.
- Glasnost:
Glasnost, which translates to “openness” or “transparency,” was primarily focused on increasing freedom of expression, political openness, and reducing censorship within the Soviet Union. It allowed for more public discussion, debate, and criticism of the government, which was previously stifled under the regime of strict state control. Under glasnost, media outlets were granted greater autonomy, enabling journalists and citizens to voice opinions and raise concerns that were once suppressed. This policy also led to the release of political prisoners, greater religious freedom, and the acknowledgment of historical events that were previously hidden or distorted, such as the Stalin-era purges and the 1930s famines. Glasnost created a more open society and encouraged dialogue about reforming the Soviet system. - Perestroika:
Perestroika, meaning “restructuring,” was aimed at reforming the Soviet political and economic systems. The goal of perestroika was to address the inefficiencies of the centralized Soviet economy by introducing market-like reforms and decentralizing economic control. It allowed for some private enterprise and greater autonomy for local managers, as well as a push towards reducing the rigid state-planning that had stifled innovation. Politically, perestroika sought to introduce democratic reforms, such as multi-candidate elections, although it stopped short of creating a fully democratic system. Gorbachev envisioned perestroika as a way to revitalize the Soviet system, but its effects were mixed and contributed to significant political instability.
In summary, glasnost focused on greater freedom of expression, while perestroika focused on reforming the Soviet economy and government. The two policies were intertwined but distinct, with glasnost opening the doors for more transparent dialogue and perestroika seeking systemic restructuring.