Some ID's from Notes

Leninism - In regards to the general public, part of Leninism was the belief that Lenin was holy, pure, and infallible. Significance: During Gorbachev's reforms, people used Leninism to protest reforms and call for a return to Lenin's ideology.

Nina Andreyeva (Andreeva) - Chemistry professor and Stalinist. Significance: Protested Gorbachev's reforms, and openly questioned his commitment to communism in a newspaper article.

Peristroika: Reforms implemented by Gorbachev to bring about a restructuring of soviet political and economical practices. Significance: Seen by many as a catalyst to the downfall of the Soviet Union.

Article 6 of the Soviet Constitution: States that the Communist Party is the leading party, and ultimately holds all power in the government of the Soviet Union.

August 19, 1991 - The Coup of 1991 begins. Significance: In response to the reforms made by Gorbachev, "hardliners" in the Communist party stage a coup to overthrow him; Yeltsin assumes a leadership role and announces that this is a coup and that the military should not take part.

August 21, 1991 - Gorbachev reinstated to power, investigation of coup begins. Significance: Though the coup proved unsuccessful, it showed a clear schism in the government and Soviet Union in general.

December 24 - 26, 1991 - Soviet Union ceases to exist. Significance: Marks the official end of the Soviet Union.

Komsomol: Communist Youth Organization. Significance: During Gorbachev's reforms, rebels pushed for even further change.

March 13, 1990: Article 6 of the old Constitution amended. Significance: Removed Communist party's monopoly and increased the power of the President. Also, more parties pop up.

Nationalism - Rather than a pride in one's country, this nationalism is used in a negative manner and refers to extreme nationalist behaviour, or exclusion of peoples. Significance: Problem after Article 6 was amended as the Communist party kept nationalism under control.