The End of Bipolarity inside the gia) + the soviet system * Disintegration of the Soviet Union * Shock Therapy in Post Communist Regimes + Tensions and Confits ‘The concept of Bipolarty has significant implications on the global order. After the collapse of the Berlin wall in 1989, ‘there was a historic chain of events that led to the collapse cof the second world and the end of the Cold War. Germany ‘was unified, the eight European countries one after another that were part of Soviet blac replaced their communist, ‘governments. ‘The Soviet Union was supported by ordinary men and ‘women, later disintegrated. The disintegration of USSRled ‘to various changes in the world politics be it social, ‘economic or political. There were series of events like intreduction of democratic politics, Capitalism in [Post-communist regimes, mid- east crises, Gulf war and the Dist century Arab Spring. ‘The Union of Sevier Socialist Republics (USSR) emerged after the Socialist Revolution in Russia in 1917. The Secialist ‘Revolution was influenced by the ideals of socialism and the need for egalitarian society. as against the capitalism. Thus, ‘this system tried to abolish the institution of private property and promoted a society based on principles af equality = Unipotar World » Gut war = The Clinton Years = Mile East Grizes Afghanistan * Arab Spring in the 2ist Century The makers of Soviet system gave priority tothe state and the institution ofthe party. The Saviet politcal system was centred around the Communist Party. No other political party was allowed by the state-In terms of economy, everything was planned and controled by the state The East European countries liberate by the Soviet Union from the fascists forces after the Second World War came under the control of the USSR. The same political and economic system of USSR was implied in these counties. This group of countries was called the Second World or the Socialist bloc. These countries were held together under the Warsaw Pact led by USSR. The USSRwas the leader of the bloe. Characteristics of Soviet System The characteristics of Soviet System are discussed below \ After the Second World War, the Soviet Union became a powerful nation. Except the US. its economy was developed as compared to other nations. Ithad a complex communications network, vast energy resources including ol, ron and steel, machinery production and a transport sector which connected its rematert areas with efficiency. ‘he chapter some part af US Hegemony in Waild Polley i also included+ ttalso had its own domestic consumer industry which produced everything from pins to cars. although there was 2 difference in their quality as compared to the Western Capitalist countries. © Arminimum standard of living was assured {forall the citizens under the Soviet System. Basic necessities like health, education, childcare and other welfare schemes were subsidised by the government. «Unemployment was not there at that time Assets like land and produce were owned and controlled by the Soviet state. Thus. State ownership was supreme form of ownership. Drawbacks of Soviet System “There were some drawbacks in Soviet System. ‘These were + The Soviet System became very bureaucratic and authoritarian in nature. It became difficult for its citizens to express their problems. «Problems like lack of democracy and absence of freedom of specch stifled the people to express their disagreements against the government in jokes and cartoons. «The Soviet System was based on one-party system represented by Communist Party ‘which had tight control ever all institutions. ‘There was lack of accountability towards the people. + The party refused to fulfil the needs and aspirations of the people in filteen different republics to manage their own affairs including their cultural affairs. Russia dominated everything and people from ‘ther republics felt neglected and suppressed ‘The Soviet Union spent a lot on technology and infrastnacture ta match the US military capabilities. The Soviet Union lagged behind the Westin technology, infrastructure eg transport, power and mast importantly, in falling the political or economic aspirations of citizens. «The Soviet System was weakened after the Afghanistan invasion in 1979 as its ‘productivity and technology fll miserably behind that of West. It led to shortages in all consumer goods. Food import increased ‘every year. The Soviet economy turned stagnant in the late 1970's. Leaders of the Soviet Union ‘Vadim Lenin (470926) We waste founder ofthe aoehevk Communit Party and leader ofthe Ruin Ravohition of 1°17 He wa aa he foundt-has ot te USER ug te mast eet period towing the revolution (317-1528). He was 29 ‘catstandng heoreticin and practtione’ of Mani anda source ef nation for Joseph Sala (1479-983) He was 2 successor to Lela and led the Sovet elon during ine consalastion 152452) He began rep nautalation a farce Colectvissten of agicultre He was held sponsible ter he reat Tear ofthe 1530¢ authoritarian functioning and einnation otras within the party ‘kta Koruna (184-17) He was ne tear of the Sovet Union (953-64) He citessea Stars leadership sve ana troduced some reforms in 956 2nd suggested ‘Dancelul coexstance’ with the West. He was involves In suppressing popula’ ‘eben in Hungary onan the Cuban Mise Cass Leon Brezhnev (205-22 Hewat the leer atthe Soviet Union (19682) who ‘toposed Asian Collective Security System. He was volved in suppressing popu ‘ebalion in C2echosiovaki and in nvedng Afghan. ‘Mutha Gorbachev (2mm 131) He was the lst leader ofthe Soulet Union (1985-5. Me ‘thew Soviet oops rom Afghanistan and Easter Europe and hlpedin he Uniteation of Germany. He endea the Cold War an was Blamed fore asintagation ft Sovst Union. ‘Boris Yeltsin Born 139) He was he st elected President of Russia (1291-398) who ‘rose to power inthe Cammunst Party and was mace the Mayor ef Mascow By CGareachew Later he ined ta cries ot Gorbachev aa eft the COMMAS Party apd ed ihe protests against the Soviet regime in ot He played aie oe In ‘Szcling the Sovet Union and was blsad fornarcanp uttered by Ruslan a ‘her tanston ftom communism to capitalism. FERRY +. in which yearthe Socialist Revolution of Russia came into being? SEE 2, which was the dominant form of ownership in Soviet Union? Py |] ite soviet state, pare system was prevent |. On which country Soviet Union had invaded in 1979? 5. Who was the lat leador ofthe Soviet Union who holpedtin the unification of Germany? CTI ‘Mikhail Gorbachev of the Communist Party of Soviet Union became General Secretary in 1985. He favoured reforms in this system asit would ‘keep USSR ahead from the Western powers. The reforms were also necessary to keep the USSR abreast of the information and technological revolutions. His decisions to maintain normal relations with the West, ‘democratise and reform the Soviet Union had some other effects Series of events were responsible for the disintegration of USSR. Some of them are discussed below | Grises in the Socialist Bloc People in many East European countries “which were part of Soviet bloc started protest against their own governments and USSR. Without right intervention from USSR at the right time, Communist governments in the second world collapsed one afier another. 1 Policies of Gorbachev Gorbachev identified the economic and political problems of USSR and started a series of reforms, with its intention to revive economy. This was a deviation from the Communist policies and ‘was more associated with the market economy. Many communist leaders opposed these reforms and they encouraged a coup in 1991By then people experienced freedom and did not want the old style rule of the Communist Party * Opposition Against the Coup Boris Yeltsin, who won, popular clection in Russian Republic, protested against the coup and centralised contral of USSR. «Shift of Power Power began to shift from Soviet Centre to Republics, especially in the European states which were ppart of the Sovict Union, these states saw themselves as, Sovereign states. The Central Asian republics did not ask: {for independence and wanted to remain with Soviet Federation. Under the leadership of Yeltsin in Decernber 1991, republics like Russia, Ukraine and Belarus emerged powerful and declared that Soviet Union was disbanded. ‘The Communist Party of the Soviet Union was banned, Capitalism and democracy were adopted as the base for the post-Soviet republic, “Thus, the disintegration of USSR led to the formation of the ‘Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). This came as a ‘surprise to the Central Asian republics. So to resolve this issue, the Central Asian Republics were made the founding ‘members of CIS. Russia emerged as the successor state of the Soviet Union. It also inherited the UN Security Council eat All the international tresties and commitments of the Soviet ‘Union were accepted by Russia It emerged as the only nuclear state of the post-Soviet space and it carried out same nuclear disarmament measures with the US. Democratic Politics and Democratisation- CIS ‘The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) isa regional organisation established in December 1991 ‘At present there are total 12 states in CIS, from which 9 are ‘member states Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, “Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan: 1 “Associate State Turkmenistan and 2 Observer states, “Afghanistan and Mongolia, “The CIS pramotes the coordination of its members in the fields of trade, finance, law-making and security It also ‘supports in cooperation on democratisation as well a cross border crime prevention ‘The political landscape ofthe former Eastern Bloc was ‘opened almost overnight after the disintegration tn 1991 ‘Between 1989 and 1991, every nation in eastern and central “Europe held competitive parliamentary elections forthe frst ‘ime in decades. Although these elections were not al, ‘entirely democratic and some were only partly free. “The Rose Revolution (Georgia), the Tulip Revolution (iyegyzstan), the Orange Revolution (Ukraine) and the ‘Twitter Revolution (Moldova) raised expectations for cestablishing Liberal Democracy in the Post: Soviet space despite a great deal of problems. During these demonstrations, citizens demanded strict obedience to constitutional norms, including respect far political and civie rights as well as the organisation of free and open elections. Reasons for Disintegration Some ofthe reasons which are mainly responsible for the disintegration of Soviet Union are discussed below «Internal weaknesses of Soviet political and economic institutions failed to meet the aspirations ofthe people ' The economy of the Soviet Union became stagnant which led to severe consumer shortages and disbelief and doubt in the system \ The Soviet economy used much of its resources in maintaining a nuclear and military arsenal and the development of is satellite states in Eastern Europe and within the Soviet System, which led to huge economic burden, © Ordinary citizen also became aware about the economic advancement of the West and disparities between their system and the systems of West. \ The Soviet Union too became stagnant due to rampant corruption the unwillingness to allow more openness in {government and the centralisation of authority in avast land. People were alienated by slow and stifling administration that wat no more accountable t the people. «The party bureaucrats gained more privileges then ‘ordinary citizens, People did not associate with the system and with the rulers and the government lost citizens! supper, \ Gorbachev carried out his reforms and loosened the system, There were sections of Soviet society which felt that Gorbachev should have moved much aster and were disappointed and impatient with his methods. Others, specially members of Communist Paty felt that their power and privileges were croding and Gorbachev was ‘moving too quickly. In this tug of war’. Gorbachev lst support on al sides. | Amother reason was the rise of nationalism and the desire for sovereignty within various republics including Russia and the Baltic Republics (Estonia, Lativa and Lithuania), Uisaine. Georgi As people in these areas felt alienated from the Central Asians and from each other Consequences of Disintegration ‘Some of the consequences which emerged after the collapse of Soviet Union are discussed below End of Cold War Confrontations It led to the end of Cold War confrontations. Basically, the Ideological dispute elated to socialism and capitalism was over. This further led to end of arms race and accumulation of nuclear weapons.‘Since, the ideological dispute had engaged the military of the ‘two blocs it triggered a massive arms race and accumulation fof nuclear weapons and had led to the existence of military blocs, the end af the confrontation demanded an end to this, arms race and a possible new peace. ‘Change Power Relations in World Politics _As power equation in the world politics changed. It left only ‘two possibilities Le. unipolar system or multipolar system that would dominate the world. As a result, the US became the sole superpower which was supported by the capitalist ‘system. This made the capitalist system as the dominant ‘economic system globally {Institutions like the World Bank and International Monetary Fund became powerful advisors to all these countries since ‘they gave them loans for their transitions to capitalism, Emergence of New Countries ‘The end of Soviet bloc led ta the emergence of many new ‘countries. all these countries had their own independent ‘choices. For instance, the Balticand East European countries ‘wanted to be a part of European Union and become part of ‘the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) “The Central Asian countries wanted to take advantage of ‘their geographical location and continue their close Hes with the West, the US, China and others. “Thus, the international arena witnessed many new players ‘each with its own identity, interests, economic and political sifficulties. Shock Therapy in Post (ieee ‘Shack Toy Enero ax ths end of anton authoritarian socialist system toa democratic capitalist System, In Russa, Cental Asia and East Europe tha as Capitalist system influenced by the World Bank andthe IME ‘Though the direction and features were quite similar, but shock therapy varied in intnsity and speed amonget the former second world countries “Each ofthese countries was required tomake atotal shifttoa (apaist eceeneny hac cat poating a mpl any Stucturesevelved during the Soviet period. Following are the features of shock therapy +e meant that private ownership was tobe the dominant atten of eenetdip of prncty «Privatisation of state assets and corporate ownership patterns were to be immediately brought in + Goletve farms were to be replaced by private farming and ‘apitahin i apical «This transition naled out any atematé or ‘third way other than state-controlled socialism or capitalism Consequences of Shock Therapy ‘The shock therapy administered in 1990s did not lead the people into the promised state of mass consumption rather ithad following adverse effects \- Destruction of Economy It brought ruin to the economics and disaster upon the people ofthe entire region. In Russia the large state-controlled industrial complex almost collapsed, as about 90 per cent of its industries were put up for sale to private individuals and companies. Since the restructuring was caried out through market forces and not by government-directed industrial policies, it led to the virtual disappearance of cntie industries. This was called the largest garage sale in history, as valuable industries were undervalued {and sold at throwaway prices. Though all citizens were given vouchers to participate in the sales, most citizens sold their vouchers in the black market because they seeded the money \ Decline of Russian Currency and Import of Food The value ofthe ruble, deciined dramatically. The rate of inflation was sa high that people lost all ther savings. The collective farm system disintegrated leaving people without food security and Russia started to import food. ‘The real GDP of Russia in 1999 was below what it was in 1989. The old trading structure broke down with no alternative in ts place \- System of Social Welfare Destroyed The old system of social welfare was systematically destroyed. The withdrawal of government subsidies pushed large sections of the people into poverty. The middle classes were pushed to the periphery of society and the academic land imelectual manpower disintegrated or migrated. \ Emergence of Mafia and Privatisation A mafia emerged in most of these countries and started controlling many economic activities. Privatisation led to new disparities. Post-Soviet states, especially Russia, were vided between rich and poor repions. system, there was now great economic inequality between people. | Lack of Democratic Institutions The canstruction of land pririty. The con: drafted ina hurry and most, including Russia, had a strong executive President with the widest possible [powers that rendered clected parliaments relatively weak In Central Asia, the Presidents had great powers and several of them became very authoritarian. For example, the Presidents of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan appointed themselves to power frst for ten years and then extended it for another ten years. They allowed no dissent or opposition. A judicial culture and Jndependence of the judiciary was yet to be established! in most of these countries.‘Steps Taken Under Shock Therapy «Shock therapy also involved a drastic change in the ‘external orientation of these economics. It was believed that development can be dane through more trade. Ths, a sudden and complete switch to free rade was considered essential. Now, the main engines of change were Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and the free trade regime. «This transition also involved a break up of the existing trade alliances among the countries ofthe Sovict bloc. Gradually, these states got absorbed into the Western ceonomic system. ‘As a result the Western capitalist states became the leaders And thus guided and controlled the developments of the ‘region through various agencies and organisations. ‘Most ofthese economies, especially Russia, started reviving {in 2000, ten years after their independence. The reason for ‘the revival for most of their econamies was the export of natural resources like oi, natural ga and minerals ‘Azerbaijan, Kezakhstan, Russia, Turkmenistan and ‘Urbekistan are major oil and gas producers. Other countries hhave gained because ofthe oil pipelines thet cross their territories for which they getrent. Same amount of manufacturing has restarted ‘Most of the former Soviet Republics were prone to conflicts land had many civil wars and insurgencies. There was 2 ‘violent secessionist movements in Russia's two republics i ‘Chechnya and Dagestan, (Growing invalvement of outside powers made situation ‘more worst and complicated. Facts Related to Tensions and Conflicts ‘Some facts related to tensions and conflicts in these republics areas follows © Secessionist Movements In Russia, two republics, (Chechnya and Dagestan, have had violent secessionist ‘movements. Moscow's method of dealing with the ‘Chechen rebels and indiscriminate military bombings have led to many human rights violations but failed to eter the aspirations for independence. « Sectarian Conflicts In Central Asi, Taikistan witnessed a Civil War that went on for ten years tll 2001. The region ‘as a whole has many sectarian conflicts. In Azcrbaijan’s, ‘province of Nagorno-Karabakh, some local Armenians ‘want to secede and join Armenia. In Georgia, the demand for independence has come from two provinces, resulting ina Civil War. There are movements against the existing regimes in Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan and Georgia. Countries and provinces ae fighting over river waters. All this has Jed to instability, making life difficult for the ordinary Reasons for Tensions and Conflicts Reasons for tensions and conflicts in these areas \ Regions with Vast Hydrocarbon Resources The ‘Central Asian Republics are areas with vast hydrocarbon resources, which have brought them economic benefit Central Asia has alsa become a zone of competition ‘between outside powers and oil companies. \- Establishment of Military Bases The region is next 10 Russia, China, Afghanistan and Pakistan and close to West Asia Afr Ilth September, 2001 the US wanted raltary bases in the region and paid the governments of all Central Asian states to hire bases and to allow iplanes to fly oer their territory during the wars in ‘Afghanistan and Iraq. However, Russia perecives these states a its Near Abroad’ and believes that they should bbeunder Russian influence. China hat interests bere ‘because of the ol resources and the Chinese have begun to settle around the borders and conduct trade. \ Conflicts for Independence In Eastern Europe, Cacchoslovakia split into twa independent countris ic ‘Czechs and Slovaks. But the mast severe conflict took place in the Balkan republics of Yugoslavia. After 1991. it broke apart with several provinces like Croatia, Slovenia and Bosnia and Heraegovina declaring independence. Ethnic Serbs opposed this and a massacre af non-Serb Bornians followed. The NATO intervention and the bombing of Yugoslavia followed the inter-ethnic Civil Wart. +. When did Mikhail Gorbachev became General Secretary? 2. Why dic Gorbachev initiate reforms? 2. What were the reaton for Saviet economy to became stagnant? 44 The Baltic and Eart European countries wanted to bea part of 5 Whe established the Bretton Woods System? Coen The US dominance or Unipolar World began in 1991 after Soviet power disappeared from international scene. After the end of Cold War, USA was left without any serious rival in the world. This era has been described as a period of US dominance or we can say a Unipolar world. In other words, when the international system is dominated by the sole superpower then it iscalled 2 unipolar system. ‘Some aspects of US dominance did not emerge in 1991 but in fact go back to the end of the Second World War in 1945, US played a predominant role in the world politics as 3 dominant power which deploys not only military power but also used ideological resources to shape the behaviour of competing and lesser powers.‘US emerged as a global player after the Soviet Union disintegration ast is present in all sectors of the world ‘economy ard in all areas of technology Far example, the ‘Bretton Woods system which was set up by the US after the ‘Second World War still constitutes the basic structure of the world economy: ‘The Gulf war lasted between August 1990 and February 1991, was an international conflic that erupted after Iraq, under dictator Sadclam Hussain, invaded neighbouring “Kuwait. After Hussain defied UN warnings, the US and its allies forced Iraq forces out of Kuwait ‘Series of Events During the Gulf War + trag annexed Kuwait, its South-Eastern neighbour 25, times smaller in size on 2nd August, 1990. Although Hussain claimed Kuwait to be pant of rag, he invaded the region so that Baghdad could cancel a massive debt that it ‘owed Kuwait, as well as acquire Kuwait’ large oil resource. Hussain also sought to link the annexation with the Palestenian conflict + Immediately after, the UN Security Council strangly reprimanded Iraq and warned of military action if its forces did not retreat by 15th January, 1991 ‘As Hussain refused to pay any attention to UN's many ‘warnings, a US led coalition, consisting of 660,000 troops ‘from 34 countries assembled in Saudi Arabia Iraq's ‘neighbour also threatened by Hussain’s adventures in the region. ‘After 15th January deadline was flouted by Baghdad, cwalition forced firs launched operation Desert Storm. An ‘American General, Norman Schwarzkopf, led the UN coalition and nearly 75 percent af the coalition forces ‘were from the US. Although the Iraqi President, Saddam Hussain, had promised ‘the mother of all battled, the Iraqi forces were quickly defeated and forced to withdravy from Kuwait Operation Desert Starm is also known as First Gulf War. ‘The war was largely fought in the United States. It exposed the massive technological gap that had developed between US military power and that of ether nations. ‘The highly publicised use of socalled smart bombs by the US led some observers to call this a computer war. ‘Widespread television caverage also made ita Video ‘game war with viewers around the world watching the destruction of Iraqi forces live on TV. «The war finally ended om 28th February, 199] whem the US declared a ceasefire. Despite winning the First Gulf War, George H.W. Bush lost the US presidential elections of 1992 to William Jefferson (ill Clinton of the Democratic Party, who had campaigned fon domestic rather than foreign policy issucs. Bill Clinton won again in 1996 and thus remained the President of the US for eight years During the Clinton years, it often seemed that the US had ‘withdrawn into its intemal affairs and was net fully engaged in world politics. In foreign policy, the Clinton ‘government tended to focus om ‘soft issues’ like democracy promotion, climate change and world trade rather than on the ‘hard polities’ of military power and security US Military Actions Under Clinton’s Leadership ©The most important episode occurred in 1999 in response to Yugoslavian actions against the predominantly ‘Aberian population inthe provinceef Koso. Theat forces ofthe NATO counties, led by the US, bombarded oye eed ger ape fos meas Rng the downfall ofthe govemment of Slobodan Misc tnd he Sationng of « NATO fore n Kosovo, + Another sigan US rlitary ation during the Clinton os es sep tot behing ode Us bes Th Natoby Kenya and Dares Sela, Tancanain 1998 Thc enbtag wereetpanand walgncke a were trganisation strongly influenced by extremist slit (dees. Within few days ofthis bring. President {nton ordered Operation Infinite Reach, «series of (cube tale sits cn Al nd to agen Sudan and Aighanistan. the US dd nor bother about the EEN sanction of provisions of intemational law in hs ie 9/1 and the ‘Global War on Terror’ \ On 1Ith September, 201, nineteen hijackers hailing from a numberof Arab countris took contol of four American ‘commercial aircraft shortly ater takeolf and flew thera into important buildings in the US \- One airliner each crashed into the North and South Towers of the World Trade Centre in New York. A third aircraft crashed into the Pentagon building in Arlington, ‘Virginia, where the US Defence Department is headquartered. + The fourth aircraft, presumably bound forthe Capitol building of the US Congress, came down in afield in Pennsylvania, The attacks have come ta be known as snr.+ The attacks killed nearly three thousand persons. In terms of their shocking effect on Americans, they have been ‘compared to the British burning of Washington, DC in 1814 and the Japanese attack om Pearl Harbour in 1941 However in terms of loss of life 9/11 was the most severe attack on US since the founding of the country in 176. * The US response to 9/11 was swift and ferocious. As 2 part of ts ‘Global War on Terror, the US launched ‘Operation Enduring Freedom’ against all those suspected tobe bbehind this attack, mainly Al-Qaeda and the Taliban regime in Afghanistan «The Taliban regime was easily overthrown, but remmants of the Taliban and Al- Qaeda have remained potent, as is clear from the numberof terorist attacks launched by them against Western targets since. «The US forces made arrests all ver the world, often ‘without the knowledge of the government of the persons being arrested, transported these persons across countries and detained them in secret prisons. «Some of them were brought to Guantanamo Bay, a US Naval base in Cubs, where the prisoners did not enjoy the protection of international law ar the law of their own ‘country or that of the US. Even the UN representatives ‘were not allowed to meet these prisoners. Ri sxeey “he Afghanistan conflict is a series of wars that has been fought in Afghanistan since 1978, Starting with the Saur ‘Revolution military coup, an almost continuous series of armed conflicts has dominated and afflicted Afghanistan. Afghan-Soviet war began in 1979 and ended in 1989 the ‘Soviet Army ‘invaded’ or ‘intervened’ in the country to ‘secure the ruling People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan (PDPA) following large waves of rebellion against the ‘government. This became a Cold War proxy ultimately resulting in the defeat of Soviet Union in 1989 and the ‘country steeped into perennial war due to the policy of hharboring terrorism by the Taliban. “Afghan civil war (1989-2001) was the continuing was between the government and rebels. The Soviet Union nevertheless continued to financially support the Afgan government in its fight and likewise rebel factions continued receiving support from the US and Pakistan. The ‘war changed its nature but the civil waron Afghan soil ‘continued till 2001. Taliban was an instrumental force in this civil war which was backed by Pakistan Afghanistan-US Conflict {is true that no area of the world had a greater impact on American politics, national security and economic well-being than did the Middle East crises in 1979. The conflict afterwards and regional instability continues till date- Why was Afghanistan at War with US? \- The US invaded Afghanistan along wit its alice after the 11th September, 2001 tezorist attack on the Weed Trade Cente, Twin Towers in New Vork. The US wanted to dismande the teror infrastructure and eliminate ‘Al-Qaeda that was provided a sae heaven in Afghanistan by the Taliban \ Im 2019, the US intensified peace talks with the Taliban in Doha. Officials from the alban promised to keep international terrorist groups out of Afghanistan in exchange for the United States withdrawing it roops ‘Trump abruptly ended peace talks in Septernber, only a week after US Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilad declared he had reached ain principle’ deal with Taliban officials \ The United States and the Taliban struck an agreement in 2020, clearing the stage forthe massive withdrawal of ‘Western troops from Afghanistan. In the days that followed, however, without a ceaseie, Taliban insurgents started a scres of attacks against Afghan sccurity troop. \- Asa result the United States launched an airstrike {agsinet Taliban militants in Helmand province. Thousands of tops had already been removed fallowing the UUs-Taliban deal. \- President Joe Biden declared in 2021 thatthe US will nat ‘meet the Ist May date st by the US-Taliban agreement for troop withdrawals. Instead, he claimed, frees would be totally withdrawn by 11th September, 2021 [Arab Spring in the 21st Century "The Arab Spring was a series of anti-government protests, uprisings and armed rebellions that spread across the Middle East in 2010. The 21st century witnessed the ‘emergence of new developments for democracies and democratisation in West Asian countries |The Arab Spring emerged in Tunisia took its roots where the struggle against corruption, unemployment and poverty was started by the people. This protest later turned into a political movement because the people blamed autocratic dictatorship as a cause for existing problems. 1 Then, the demand for democracy that started in Tunisia spread throughout the Muslim-dominated Arab Countries in West Asia. Hosni Mubarak, who had been in power in Egypt since 1979 also collapsed asa result of the massive democratic protests \ Imaddition, the influence of Arab Spring was also visible in Yemen, Bahrain, Libya and Syria where similar protests by the people led to democratic awakening throughout the region,‘Causes of Arab Spring “The causes ofthe Arab spring can be classified as Economic, Social and sudden causes. These were Economic Causes «The global cries played an impartant ralein the rising of the Arab spring. Such as the downfall in the oil prices during 2008-09. + The rise in price of food leading to food crises gave rise to the political unrest especially in poor countries. + Increase in unemployment especially among the youths and females was ene of the most important causes behind Arab Spring Causes * Youth bulge, education and awareness among the people and democracy also gave rise to the Arab Spring. + The demand for political freedom and removal of economic inequalities was one of the major cause behind Arab Spring. «The media and internet made the transmission of information and news throughout the world. Mass media declared Arab Spring as Social Network Revolution’ ‘Sudden Cause ‘Selfsimmolation of Mohamed Bouarig a street hawker of Tunisia gave a sudden rise to the Arab spring. His suicide became a means for the occurrence of Tunisian Revolution and widespread Arab Spring Consequences of Arab Spring ‘The eerie enegpcscesf Assh Syn ee emma below + Ithelped in the removal of the Authoritarian rulers from Tunisia, Libya and Epypt | Keeping in view the fate of Bin Ali, Qadhafi and Hosni ‘Mubarak, Baharain granted social and economic rights to their respective citizens. | Arab Spring marked the formation of a public political sphere where common people could discuss politics at public places. \ The Arab spring was deliberated as 2 good attempt towards democracy by the world 11 How many countries fought against Iraq during the First Gut War? 2. Name the President ofraq atthe time of First ult War. 4 The Commonwealth of Independent States came into existence in 4 In which years Easter and Central Europe held the Pariamentary Elections? 5. helped in the removal of authoritarian rulers from Tunisia, Libiya and Egypt. Li * Soviet system It was introduced after Russian Revolution in 1917 based on the principles of egalitarian society and planned economy controlled by the state + Egalitarian Society It believes that all people are equally Important and should have the same rights anc opportunities in le. + Coup sudden violent seizure of power from government. * Stagnation It means limiting something to grow further. + Shock Therapy The modet of transition (transter) fram capitalist economy to free trade private economy in Russia, Central Asia and East Europe came to be known as “Shock Therapy’NCERT FOLDER 1. Which arnong the following statements describe that the nature of Soviet economy is wrong? (3) Socialism was the dominant ideology (si) Stat ownershipicontrol existed over the factors af production (ii) People enjoyed economic freedom (iv) Every aspect of the economy was planned and controlled by the state Ans, (i) People enjoyed economic freedom 2. Arrange the following in chronological order. (4) Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (Gi) Fall ofthe Berlin Wall (iil) Disintegration of the Soviet Union (iv) Russian Revolution Ans. (Iv) Russian Revolution (1917) (4) Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (1979-1989) (Gi) Fall of Berlin Wall (1989) (ii) Disintegration of the Soviet Union (1991) 8. Which among the following is not an outcome of, the disintegration of the USSR? (4) End of the ideological war between the US and USSR (i) Birth of cis (Gi) Change in the balance af power in the world order (iv) Crisis in the Middle East “Ans (iv) Criss in the Middle Bast 4. Match the following. "A. Mikhail Gorbachev | (I) Successor of USSR B. Shock Therapy —|_(ii) Military Pact Russia (il) Introduced reforms D. Boris Yeltsin (iy) Economic model _E Warsaw (v) President of Russia AMS) 310: HH) Aa ee: wm) 5. Fillin the blanks. {) The Soviet political system was based an ov ideogy. a) was the military alliance started by the USSR (ii) Party dominated the Soviet Union's political system Ans (i) Socialist w initiated the reforms in the USSR in 1983. (¥) The fall of the......... symbolised the end of the Cold War. (i) Warsaw Pact (i) Communist (Gu) Gorbachev (v) Berlin Watl 6. Mention any three features that distinguished the Soviet economy from that ofa capitalist country like the US. Ans. The three features that distinguished the Soviet economy from that ofa capitalist country lke the US were as follows (i) The Soviet Union was a socialist state where the major ‘means of production and property were owned by the state while in capealse countries like US property can be private and business can be individual. (i) The Soviet economy focused upon equity of wealth and its Balanced distribution among the people. ‘Whereas, the capitalise economy of US doesn’t concern about equitable distribution of resources and considers inequality 5 2 major driving force for people to do better. (lp Economies like that of the Soviet Union created and censured employment for the people- On the contrary capitalist economies like the ecanomy af US were not responsible for unemployment of people and did not guarantee employment. 17. Explain any six factors that forced Gorbachev to Initiate reforms in the Soviet Union. CBSE2012, ‘or What were the factors that forced Gorbachev to Initiate the reforms in the USSR? cRSEZ010 Anns. The factors that forced Gorbachev to initiate the reforms in the USSR are + To keep the USSR abreast of the information and technological revolutions while were taking place in West. ‘To normalise the relationships with that of the West. ‘To demacratise and reform the Soviet Union. Toloosen the administrative system by which the codinary people were exempted from the privileges. + Rusia dominated everything and people from other region felt neglected. ‘The Soviet economy became stagnant because af low productivity and shortages ofall consumer goods. 8, What were the major consequences of the disintegration of the Soviet Union for countries like India? ‘or Describe any four consequences of the disintegration of Soviet Union. ‘case 2011Ans. The major consequences ofthe disintegration of the Soviet Union for countries like India were (i) It gave end to Cold War confrontations and to the Ideological disputes between the two superpowers. (ii) Military alliance of Soviet countries were abolished ‘and demand arose for world peace and security. (iti) The vision of multipolar world was shared and discussed where a group of countries could play a crucial role in world politics. (iv) Central Asian republics comprising Tajikistan, ‘Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia and Kazakhstan ‘were left open for bilateral agieemenis to be concluded in the field of mineral and energy resources for the upgradation of thetr economy. (w) Many East European countries, Baltic nations and Balkan states were iberablied and most of them became part of the West and NATO. (vi) Many new countries emerged with the Independent aspirations and choices. The idea of liberal demecracy surfaced as a way to organise political lite . What was shock therapy? Was this the best way to make a transition from communisin to capitalism? Ans, Shock therapy was the process of transition from an authoritarian socialist system to a democratic capitalist system, that was influenced by the World Bank and the IME ‘Shock therapy is not considered asthe best way to make ' tranition from communism to eapitaliem because * The economies were ruined and there was disaster upon the people of the entite region. + The large state controlled industrial complex almost collapsed in Russia. The valueable industries were Undervalued and sold at throw away prices. + The value ofthe Russian currency ‘Ruble’ declined. + Due to high rate of inflation people lost their all savings + Russia started to import food as the collective farm system disintegrated and people were left without food security. + With no alternatives in its place the old trading structure broke down. * Large sections of the people were put into poverty duc to the withdrawal ofthe government subsidies. "This opie removed from atest syllabus. 10. Which among the following statements is wrong with regard to ‘Operation Iragi Freedom”? (a) More than forty countries joined the US-led coalition ofthe willing to invade traq (b) The reasan given for invading Iraq was to prevent, it from developing weapons of mass destruction. {) The action was taken withthe prior approval of the UN. (2) The US-led coalition did not face major resistance fom Iraqi forces. “Ans, (¢) Tae action was taken with the prior approval ofthe UN. 111. Match the Following. Lise x Lien A. Operation Infinite (1) War against Al- Reach (Qaeda and Taliban B. Operation Enduring (ii) Coalition of the Freedom willing ©. Operation Desert (il) Missle attack in Storm Sudan 1D. Operation trai (iv) First Gute War Freedom Ans. (1). (i) ~A, (at) ~D. iv)- B 12." big and resourceful states cannot resist the US hegemony itis unrealistic to expect much smaller and weaker non-state actors to offer any resistance”. Exarnine this proposition and give your opinion, Ans. itis a reality that the resourceful state cannot resist the US hegemony because there are differences among big countries like China, India and Russia that have the potential to challenge the US hegemany. Under these circumstances, the smaller and weaker non-state actors ‘an offer resistance ‘These challenges to American hegemony will emerge in the economic and cultural realms, and will come from a ‘combination of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), social movements and public opinion; it may arise from sections ofthe media and intellectuals, artists find writers: These various actors may well form links across national boundaries, including with Americans, 0 criticise and resist US policies.Cea PRACTICE ‘Objective Type Questions ‘Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) 1 In. which year the Berlin Wall was built? (a) 1960 (ise {e1965 (a) 1955 Ans. (b) 1961 2. Which one af the following statements about the Berlin Wallis ineorreet? (a) te symbolleed the dvislon between the capltlist and the ‘communist world (b) tras bull immadlatey ater the Sacond World {} Hdd not mark the unlflstlon ofthe two parts of ‘Germany, (4) st was broken by the people on 3th November, 1888, ANS. (¢) It didnot mark the unification ofthe two parts of Germany ‘8. For how many years did Civil War continued in Tajikistan? (a) 15 years (tb) 5 years {e) 12 years (4) 10 years Ans. (4) 10 years 4. The Communist Party staged an abortive coup in. ‘August 1991, against which Soviet leader? (a) Boris Velstin (b) Mikhail Gorbachev {e} Leonid Brezhnev (4) Joseph stalin Ans. (b) Mikhail Gorbachev 5. Which of the folowing statement given below is/are correct about the Soviet Leader Viadimir Lenin? (a) me waste oustanding therelcan and practioner of ‘ands (©) He bepan rapid Industralisation and forcible ‘colleivication of ageeultare {} He proposed asian Collective Security System. (4) He was the frst eleced President of Russia Ans, (a) He was the outstanding theoretician and practitioner of mancem. 6. Which of the following statement(s) with regard to the Tajikistan confit isare incorrec? (a) The main zone of confi asthe South 20ne (0) the cit war staned in 1901 {e) i was decade log el war Full pearly by a clash between etic groupe (a) The dil war came to an end in 2008 ANS. (b) The civil war started in 1991 7. The Union af Saviet Socialist Republies (USSR) came into being after the Socialist Revolution in Russia in ‘case 2020 (ay 1914 (oy 17 {e} 1939 (a 1991 Ans. (b) 1917 ‘8. Which one of the following statements was not 2 Feature of the Soviet System? CASE Term!2021 (a) Aminimum standard af ving was ensured toll chizens. (©) The Soviet Government subsidised the basic necesites {c} There was no unemployment. (4) People had the eight 1 propery. Ans. (4) People had the right ta property. 8, Which among the following statements about Soviet System is nat true? ‘case 2020 (a) The Sovlet Unlon had complex communicaon. {)1thad a complex machinery production system and eanspat ser that consetid ls remote eas Wi sffceney. (e) had & mest consumer industry that prsduced verytbing fom pnt cars (4) Soviet Unton disintegrated in 1992 Ans. (€) Soviet Union disintegrated in 1992 10. Which one of the following was NOT a consequence of disintegration of the USSR? (a) stan new states emerge (©) Russia emerged as anew superpower. {} Power relations in world palites changed. (4) The capitalist system emerged es ihe winne, Ans. (b) Russia emerged as 2 new superpower. 111. Which among the following is not an outcome of the disintegration of the USSR? (a) Endof the ideological war between the US and the USSR. {b) Binh ofc. {) Change in balance of power inthe wor order. (4) Crisis ta the Mdsle East. Ans. (@) Crisis in the Middle East 12. Why did Russia become the successor of USSR? (a) Rusia led the formation af CIS ‘case 2020 (©) inherted the Soviet Seat in the UN {e) 1 was the largest republic () Bors Velisin was more charismatic than Gorbachev ANS. (b) It inherited the Soviet Seat inthe UN18. Which three major republics of the USSR declared a 1991 that the Soviet Union was disbanded? (a) Lshuanis, Georgia and kyrgyzstan CBSE Term! 2021 {b) Russia, Lava and Unbekstan {c) Russia, Ukraine and selarus (@) Russia Estonia and Turkmenistan Ans. (¢) Russia, Ukraine and Belarus 14, Identify the group of countries that had been part of the Saviet Union before its disintegration. (a) Tajkstan, Azerballan, Arment (b) Armenia, West Germany, Azerballan {} Poland, East Germany, Norway (4) Norway, Hungary, Romania Ans. (a) Tajikistan, Azerbatjan, Armenia 15. Which one of the following was not a weakness of the Soviet Union? (CASE Term 12021 (a) The Communist rany was ot accounable tothe peonle (0) There was rampant coupon inthe Sov! Unlon. {6) The pry bureaucracy had many more paves than ahetdinary citaen had. (4) Gotbacher Inte reforms in USSR Ans. (4) Gorbachev initiated reforms in USSR 16. Which one among the following is a cause of disintegration of the Soviet Union? CBSE Term!2021 (2) inability ofthe Soviet System 1 corse its own mistakes. (b) Over aspirations ofthe people {e] Rapid economic development. (a) Supetierty of the Sovie system over Western Caplalism Ans. (a) Inability ofthe Soviet System to correct its own sistakes, 17. The disintegration of Soviet Union was one of the ‘most important events that altered the glabal geopolitics after the Second World War. Consider the following statement(s) in this regard and choose the correct ane/(). 1. A.coup took place in 1991 that was encouraged by communist party hardliness. 2, Bors Yeltsin emerged as a national hero in ‘opposing this coup. 3. In December 1991, under the leadership of Yeltsin, Russia, Ukraine and Belarus three major republics of the USSR, declared that the Soviet Union was disbanded. Codes (a) tana 3 (by only 1 (c) Land 2 (4) 1. zand 3 Ans. (d) 1, 2and3 18. Soviet systern which came into being after Socialist Revolution in 1917 was very powerful, bat disintegrated in 1990 due to the following given 1. One party system. 2. Russian dominance over other 15 repuiblies of USSR. 3. Non-recognition of cultural aff residing in these republics. 5 of people codes (a) Fand 2 (o) only2 {e)1.2ands (4) 2and 5 Ans (@)1,2and3 19. Which one of the following was not a consequence of disintegration of the USSR? ‘case 2019 (a) Many new states emerged. (©) Russia emerged as anew superpower {c} omer relations in world poles changed. (4) The Caplalis system emerged asthe winner. Ans, (b) Russia emerged as a new superpower. 20. Shock Therapy is @ phenomenon associated with ‘case 2020 (a) Cental Asan confers in Tajikstan and Azerbajon {b) New Intemational Eznnome Order {) US plans to root out communism (2) stabisng the Russian currency against the US dollar Ans. (2) Stabiizing the Russian currency against the US dollar 21. Which one of the following was not a consequence Of Shock therapy in Ru (CaSE Term 12021 (a) The colecive farm system dsinteprated (©): brought run to che economy and daster upon the people. {c) The whole large scale state-controlled industrial complex diese eolspeed. (a) The spstem of social welfare gor srengthened. Ans. (4) The system of social welfare go strengthened. 22, The movement “Arab Spring’ that began in 2010 later tuned into which type of movement? (a) Social Movement {(b) Religions Movement {e) Follies! stovement (4) Economie Movement ANS. (¢) Political Movement 28. The Arab Spring was a struggle against what? (a) Unemployment (©)Corupiion CBSE 2020 {e) Poverty (d) allof these ANS. (2) Allo these 24. Which one of the following states is not a Baltic Republic? (a) Estonia (b) Ukraine {e) tania (2) Labuan Ans. (b) Uiraine25, The Arab Spring did not transcend which of the following countries? ‘case 2020 ge So (eyTuniia (2) Hbya—(e)tan (6) Yemen eras} Ans (e) tran Gina 26. The result of Arab Spring was ease 2020 a2 ES 4 (a) Autocratic dictatorship (bb) Socialists system Ams, (b)3412 Apres told ora Soylent res 31, Match List I with List I. Select the correct answer Ans. (a) Autocrat dicutorship Tiamhihe cides geteine: 27, Which statement among the following about the List ist first Gulf War's corzect? CBSE Ferm 2021 oe Ga (a) was anexcosve war beeen the US and tng Hee omnes {b) The UN ha no role play nts wa. Eerie {c) Aneian forces used atom bombs 0 win the Wa (G)-te frst ult war proved oe ancl prota fr 1B. Russian Parliament declared its 2. 1988 heus. Independence from the Soviet Ans, (a) It was an exclusive war between the US and Iraq Union . Independence movement began 3. 1985 28. The statements given below are related to Shock asian = ‘Therapy. Choose the option that represents only the true statements. (C8SE Term 12021 Desist eed ec Sat: 1. The value of the Ruble, the Russian currency republics declined due to Shock Therapy I, Shock therapy strengthened communism. Codes IM. Shock therapy reduced the pices of goods wes? TV. Shock therapy destroyed the old system of socal Sea vellare tase Choose the correct option. asa fae ep pea Ans. (a)3423 (e) i ttand a (4) tandrv Ans.(@) Land.1v 29. Arrange the following in chronological order. 1. End of the Second World War—1945 IL Disintegration of the USSR—1991 INL. Fall ofthe Berlin Wall—1989 IV, Indo-Russian Strategic Agreement—2001 Choose the correct option. (Case Term12021 (omnia @uw. 32. Ans. (b)1, 0, 11¥ ‘Match the Following 80. Match List I with List II. Select the correct answer from the codes given below. ‘This picture symbolised the division between even and world. (a) Capitalist and Communist, (©) Communist and Socialist Afghanistan in { Socialist and Capitalist ‘AL Berlin wall was broken in 8. Russian Revolution ‘The soviet invasion of D._Indo-Russian strategic 4. 1917 (@) Socials and Consumerist, Agreement Ans. (a) Capitalist and CommunistAssertion-Reason Questions Directions (@ Nos. 33-35) In the questions given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and choose the correct option. (a) Both A and Rare rue and Rls the comet explanation of (©) Boch A and m are rue, bur Ris not the correct ‘explanation of A {e) Alstue, but Ris false (2) Ads false, Bu Ris true 33. Assertion (A) The old system of social welfare in the Soviet Union automaticaly got destroyed. Reason (R) The withdrawal of government subsidies pushed large sections of the people into poverty. (CBSE Term 2021 Ans. (a) Both A and R are true and Ris the corect explanation of A 94. Assertion (A) The Soviet Union had become stagnant in an administrative and political sense as well. Reason (R) The Soviet system was based on the ideology of socialise. (CBSE Term 12021 Ans. (b) Both A and R are true, but Ris not the correct explanation of A 85. Assertion (A) The Soviet Union and Communism collapsed in 1991, Reason (R) The internal weaknesses of the Soviet political and economic institutions failed to meet the aspirations of the Soviet people. CASE Term! 2021 Ams. (a) Both A and R are ruc and Ris the correct explanation of A Passage Based Objective Type Questions 1, Study the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. ‘The Soviet system, however, became very bureaucratic and authoritarian, making life very difficult for its citizens. Lack of democracy and the absence of freedom of speech stifled people who often expressed their dissent in jokes and cartoons. ‘Most of the institutions of the Soviet state needed reform: the one-party system represented by the Communist Party of the Saviet Union had tight control over all institutions and was unaccountable to the people. The party refused to recognise the urge of people in the fifteen diffecent republics that formed the Soviet Union to manage their own affairs including their cultural affairs. Although, on paper, Russia was only one of the fifteen republics that together constituted the USSR, in reality Russia dominated everything, and people from other regions felt neglected and often suppressed. (4) How many republics farmed the Soviet Union? (ay10 2 (els (dy 16 Ans (0) 15 i) Which among the following republic dominated in the USSR? (a) vkzaine {c} Georgia Ans. (b) Russia (lil) Why did people become dissatisfied with the rule of Communist Panty of Saviet Union? (a) Because Soviet Unlon had tght contr over all the Inctiudions (by necaegovermen wa ot scounabe awards the enle (cBeghse pepe ere de ter bs fndamental (a) allt te above Ans.) allt the stove (iv) How the people of Soviet Union expressed their (©) russia (a) Lata dissatisfaction? (a) inthe form of protests (b) Jokes and Cartoons {c] Newspapers (2) Magazines ANS. (b) Jokes and Cartoons 2. Study the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follaw. ‘The declaration on the disintegration of the USSR and the formation of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) came as a surprise to the other republics, especially to the Central Asian ones. The exclusion of these republics was an issue that was quickly solved by making them founding members of the CIS. Russia was now accepted as the successor state of the Soviet Union. It inherited the Soviet seat in the UN Security Council. Russia accepted all the international treaties and commitments of the Soviet Union. (i) ClS here stands for (2) Commonwealth of independent States (©) Commaniveslh of international uecessor {c} Common independent states (4) Commonwealth of independent Sovereigns Ans. (a) Commonwealth of Independent States (ii) Which among the following state was accepted as, 2 successor state of the Soviet Union? (a) Ulzalne (b) Lava {e} Russa (a) lanes Ans. (6) Russia(iii) Disintegration of USSR came as a surprise because iremerged as a great power after the Second World @ (b) stad vast energy resources. {} Inthe arms race, Sovlet Union managed to match the (4) Allof the above Ans. (@) allof the above (iv) What kind of role was played by the successor of Soviet Union in the International Politics? signed treaties with the US. (4) Both (2) and (b) Ans. (4) Bath (2) and (b) 2. Study the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. “The collapse of communism was followed in ‘most of these countries by a painful process of transition from an authoritarian socialist system tea democratic capitalist system. The model of transition in Russia, Central Asia and East Europe that was influenced by the Warld Bank and the IMF came ta be known as ‘Shock therapy’. Shock therapy varied in intensity and speed amongst the second world countries, but its direction and Teatures were quite similar” CBSE Term12021 (4) Which of the following incidents has been quoted as the ‘collapse of communism’? (4) Gorbachev's fatlure to get the desired results through his reforms () Disintegration of the Soviet Ualen. {c} The Soviet Union had become stagnant in ministration. () People were not satsfed withthe Soviet System and fsovemment lat popular backing. Ans. (b) Disintegration of the Soviet Union. (ii) Which one of the following countries was popular {or its democratic eapitalist system? (a) United States of America (b) mussia {c} Cuba (d) East Germany Ans. (b) Russia (iil) Which group of two countries belonged to the “Second World’ countries? (a) india and Patistan (b) Germany and nly {ec} Russia and ukraine (4) China and Japan ANS. (c) Russia and Ukraine (iv) Which one of the following was not a consequence ‘of “shock therapy’? (a) The rate of inflaton rose high. (b) The value of Ruble, the Russian currency declined {) The callecve farm system got strengthened and food security was ensured. (4) Tae old system of social welfare was systematicaly destroyed. ANS. (c) The collective farm system got strengthened and food security was ensured, (v) Choose the optian that is a feature of communism. (a) Muld-pany system (0) State concolled economy {e) Special Economie Zanes (SEZ) (4) Privatisation of industries and agnculure Ans. (4) Privatisation of industries and agriculture 4. Study the following passage carefully and answer the questions that Follow. ‘The First Gulf War revealed the vast technological ‘gap that had opened up between the US military Capability and that of other states. The highly publicised use of so called ‘smart bombs’ by the US led some observers to call this a ‘computer war’ ‘Widespread television coverage also made it a ‘video game war’, with viewers around the world watching the destruction of Iraqi forces live on TV in the comfort of their living rooms. (i) Im the above passage, which human fault was highlighted? (a) irq overestimated his powers against the US. (b) Human belngs must have true knowledge of the power. {c) America has shown is hegemony propetiy (4) Both (a) and (b) Ans. (4) Both (a) and (b) (i) Which type of Bomb was wtlised in this war? (a) Human Bomb (b) Nuclear Bomb {€) Chemleal Bomb (4) smart Bom Ans. (4) Smart Bomb (ii) Which kind of message did the US want to share ‘with the world by using the Bombs? (a) It wanted to reveal the vast technological gap. (0) 1 wanted 0 shaw Its dominance inthe world. {) Both (a) and (b) (4) twanted 10 show trag that they are more competent in rechnalogy Ans. (¢) Both (a) and (b) (iv) Why this war is known a8 a computer game wat? (a) Because viewers watched the destruction of tag! faces lie on 1. (0) Due wo widespread coverage of war {) Varlous video games were Introduced due ro tls war. (4) Both (a) and (b) Ans. (4) Both (2) and (8)‘Very Short Answer Type Questions 1. The Soviet economy was more developed than the rest of| the world except for the US after the end of the Second ‘World War Substantiate the statement with any one example. Case 2019 Ans, After the end of the Second World War, the Soviet economy had developed a complex communication retwork and vast energy resources including ol, iron and ‘eel Ithed 2 domestic consumer industry that produced everything from pins to cars So, iti true that Soviet economy was more developed than the rest of the world after the end af the Second World War 2. State any two features of the Soviet system. of Which were the two important features of the Soviet system? case2013 (or Mention any two characteristics of the Soviet political system. CESE2012, 2008; CBSE 2008, cor Deseribe any two features of Soviet System. case 2018 ANS. The two features ofthe Sovies system were (i) The Soviet system was based on state welfarism, ‘where the state was engaged in mass production to meet the needs of the people. (1) The Communist Pary of Soviet Unian (CPSU) controlled the government and dominated the political decision-making. Why did the Soviet Union disintegrate? Highlight any two arguments in support of your answer ‘case 2010 cor Mention any two main reasons for the collapse of the Soviet Union. case 2009 Ans. The USSR disintegrated because (i) The Soviet political and economic institutions had developed internal weaknesses which defined people's aspirations and needs. (i) The existence of the Soviet Union was affected by the corruption and more because of their inability to take appropriate actions which would lead to the correction of mistakes. 4. List any two differences between the Socialist and Communist party Ans. The two differences are * Socialist party believes in gradual change whereas, the Communist party believes in radical and fundamental change * Socialist party aims at improvement and reform in society while, Communist pry ans at restructuring of an entire society 5. How was the US benefitied by the Soviet disintegration? case 20s Ans, The US was benefitted by the Soviet disintegration on the: ‘economic crisis in front af the USSR. ‘The Soviet Union used much of its resources in ‘maintaining a nuclear and military arsenal and the {development of its satellite states in Easter Europe and ‘within the Soviet eystem 6. Highlight any one major distinction between the Soviet economy and the capitalist ‘economy, case 2015 Ans. The Soviet system was based on the principles of equality and planned ecanemy controled by the state ‘Whereas in capitalist econamy, private ownership is dominant. Land and productive asets are owned and controlled by the captalist 11. Name the republic that succeeded Soviet Union alter its disintegration. What was its position in the international domain? ‘case 2019 Ans. The disintegration of Soviet Union was succeeded with, ‘the formation of three major republics Le. Russia, ‘Ukraine and Belarus. Russia was accepted as a successor (of Sovict Union after its disintegration and inherited the Soviet seat ofthe United Nations Security Council |B, What was the main objective of “Operation Desert Storm’? ‘case 2015 or Why was ‘Operation Desert Storm’ fought against Iraq case 2014 Ans. The Gulf war al known a: “Operation Desert Storms’ vas fought from 2nd August, 1990 to 28th February 1991. Iewas a UN waged war led by United States against Iraq. This war was in. response to Iraq’ invasion land annexation of Kuwait. ‘8, Describe any two Social causes that led to Arab Spring Ans, Following ate the two social cause that eto the Arab Spring (i) The demand for poltial freedom and removal of economic inequalities (i) The media and internet made the transmission of Information snd news throughout the world thereby spreading the movement. 10, The end of the USSR does not mean the end of socialism. Explain, Ans. After the disintegration ofthe USSR in 1991, many ‘countries stil fallow the socialist idealogy in organising their political, social and economic life. For example, Cuba, Venezuela, Nort Korea, China, these are communist countries which are still n existence after the demise of USSR. The success of state (of the USSR namely Russia is a socialist country. Thus, the end af the USSR does not mean the end of socialism.‘Short Answer Type Questions 1. Why did the Soviet System become so weak and Soviet economy stagnanted? ‘Ans. The Soviet System becomes so weak and Soviet ccanamy stagnated because of the following reasons + The intemal weakness of the Soviet political and ‘conomic institutions, which failed to mect the aspirations of the people were responsible forthe ellapec of the ster. + Economic stagnation for many years led to severe shortage and downfall of consumers and made the Soviet System questionable + The use of large amount of its resources in maintaining nuclear and mltary arsenal and the development ofits satellites in Eastern Europe and ‘within the Soviet System led tothe weakness of the system and stagnating the economy + At the same tie, the ordinary eizens had the Knowledge of rapid advancement of West and ther AIsparties wit the system of the West came as 2 political and peychological shock 2. Explain any four issues of tension and confliets in the former Soviet Republics. Ans. Four issues that made the former Saviet Republics prone to tension and conflict were as follows (i) Chechnya and Dagestan had violent secessionist ‘movement. Russia was criticised for its method of “Iuppression which led to human rights violation (4) Tajikistan experience a decade long civil war ‘which lasted for ten years. Georgia also faced civil ‘war due to the demand for independence in twa provinces. (it) There were movements against the existing regimes in Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, Azcrbaijan which le to sectarian conflicts (Gv) Countries and provinces of former USSR were fighting over river waters. This led to instability and muade life difficult for the ordinary people. 8. Define the term Unipolarity. What were the outcomes of a unipolar world after 1991 that benefitted USA? Ans Unipotaity means that there i sole superpower that js dominant in the international damain. For example, US remained the only superpomer after the disintegration of USSR in 1991 The outcomes ofa unipolar world after 1991 are discussed below (i) The US became the cole superpower and the capitalist economy remained the dominant ‘ecaomic system internationally. (ii) The power relations in world palitics changed and therefore, the relative influence of ideas and Institutions also changed. (ily Potiticaly, the notion of ikeral democracy emerged 23s the best way to organise politcal life (iv) Institutions like World Bank and IMF became powerful advisors to all the countries and gave leans for their transitions to capitalism, 4, Differentiate between the capitalist and the socialist, ‘models of developement ‘case 2014 ‘Ans. Difference between the capitalist and the socialist models of development are Capitalist Model Socialist Model In this model, means af The socialist model production can be owned favours state ownership by the individual which of means af production means state ownership sand individual ownership absent here. 1s prohibited ‘The main motive ofthis The main motive ofthis model is to extract model is the social ‘maximum profit from the welfare of the masses market doesn’t recognise the It upholds and recognises Prindple of equality and the principle of equality ‘widens the gap between and seeks to createan Fich and pear. Production is catied out The socialist mode! is fon demand and supply based en mass production basis. ‘with no profit motive. 5. what do you mean by Arab Spring? Mention any four causes of Arab Spring Ans. The Arab Spring was a series of pro-democracy uprisings that developed largely in the Muslim countries including Tunisia, Moracce, Syria, Libya, Egypt and Baharain, The ‘vent in these nations generally began in the spring of 2011, which led to the name Arab Spring. ‘The various causes of Arab Spring areas follows * The rise in the global criss, such as the downfall in the oil prices during 2008-09. ‘The rse in the price of food leading to food crisis gave ‘ise to the political unrest especially in poor counties * Increase in unemployment especially among the Youths and females were ane of the most impartant uses behind Arab Spring. + The demand for political freedom and removal of economic inequalities was one of the major cause behind Arab Spring + Self -immolation of Mohamed Bouszia 2 strcet hawker of Tunisia gave a sudden rise to the Arab Spring.6. What was the Gulf war of 1990? Ans In August 1990, iraq invaded Kuwalt, occupied and annexed it. United Nations tried to convince Iraq to quit its aggression, but the UN failed to convince. Then the LUN mandated the liberation af Kiwalt by force The US President George W Bush hailed the emergence cof New World Order. In response to this, there was an emergence af war which came to be Known a5 First Gulf War. In this war, 2 ‘huge coalition force fram almost 34 countries fought against Iraq. This war was fought under the code name ‘of Operation Desert Storm. This operation of UN wat ‘mostly American. There was about 78% of forces from the US The First Gulf War revealed the vast technological gap that apened up between US military forces and other countries. The use of smart bombs made ita computer war And widespread television coverage made ita video game war. Long Answer Type Questions 1. Give any three examples to show that most of {former Soviet republics were prone to conflicts and tensions. case 2013 cor Describe the factors that make most ofthe farmer Soviet Republics prone to conflicts and threats ‘case 2015, Ans, Foranswer refer to text under the beading “Disintegration ofthe Soviet Union’ on page no 4 2. Explain the consequences ofthe disintegration of the Soviet Union. C8SE2010, CBSE 2012, 2012 co Describe any four consequences of the disintegration of Soviet Union. ANS. For answer refer to text under the heading "Consequences of Disintegration’ on page no. Sand 6. cese2019 ‘8. Examine any six characteristics of the Soviet System during 1971, 1991 ‘case 2008 Ans, Following ar ite sx characteristics in the time period of 20 years (i) The USSR was only a federation on paper. In realty i-di’t embrace the features of federal system. The fifteen republics were denied Sutonomy and thee was centralisation af power round Rusia. (i) The Communist Party ofthe Soviet Union (CPSU) controled the government and dominated the Political decision-making. 1 sirengtnened the Principle of democratic centralism whieh meant lack of dissent on the decisions of the upper party bodies. Thus, single party system was the (it) The most coloured feature ofthe Soviet System was the propagation of socialism to oppose the effects ‘of capitalism, though later on, it was abandoned (Ghock therapy), (iv) The Soviet economy was state owned and state planned where state was the owner of the means ‘of production thus, there was absence of private property. (The Soviet System was characterised by 2 complex ‘communication network with vast energy resources like ol ron and steel The state had a vast ‘etwork of transportation to manufacture or twansport goods to remotest areas. (vi) The Soviet System was based on state welfarism ‘where the state was engaged in mass production to meet the needs of the people, “4, Highlight any three positive and uaree negative eatures cach of the Soviet system in the Soviet Union, ‘case 2016 Ans The three postive features of the Soviet system were {G) The Soviet economy was more developed than the rest of the world except the US. Ithad a complex ‘communication network, vast energy fesources, rmuchinery production and a transport system that ‘Connected its remotest areas (Gi) A minimum standard of living forall citizens was ‘ensured by the Soviet state and the government ‘Subsidised basic necessities including heals, ‘education, child care and other welfare schemes. (ii) State ownership was given more importance. Land ‘and productive aseets were owned and controlled by the Soviet state The thce negative features ofthe Soviet system were {) The Soviet system was very bureaucratised and authoritarian in nature. It turned the life of the people into disorder. Authoritarianism meant the absence of democracy and freedom of speech which ‘angered the people (Gi) Soviet economy witnessed economic stagnation for 2 long time which led to the market failure, when demand failed ta meet supply in the market for consumer goods. (il) State treasury had spent a huge fortune on ‘building and maintaining nuclear arsenals and in developing its satelite states in East Europe and ‘within the Soviet system. It turned into 2 large ‘cconomie burden for the Soviet system. 5. Why did the Soviet Union, the second most powerful county in the world, suddenly disintegrate? Explain any six reasons. CBSE 2019 cor Explain any six reasons responsible for the disintegration of the USSR. case 2018 Co Explain any four factors that were responsible forthe disintegration of the USSR. ‘case 2020 Ans, Reasons forthe sudden disintegration ofthe USSR were For answer refer tothe text under the heading “Restons for Disintegration’ on page no. ®66. What was the Soviet system? Assess any four features of the Soviet system. case 2013 [ANs. The Soviet system was based. on the etiam of capitalism which delared tht capitalism unawoidioly Jeads neverending impoverishment and exploitation of the masses. It suessed that capitalism can never equate itself with mass production for the salisfacton of Buman needs, The Sever yrtem was largely pro-poor in orientation with sori policies aimed at weifare ofthe masses. The Soviet Systemt was constituted aller the Russian Revoluin of 1917 based on equality and planned economy. Four features ofthe Sovet system are (i) In Soviet system, sate was accorded an important role. State war the saviour of the masses (i) Te Soviet system was an outcome ofthe socialist doctrine which secks to create an egalitarian seciety. (i The Soviet system's economy was planned and contrlle bythe state. There were no private enlerpises or industries. (Ov) The Soviet political system gave primacy to the Comrsunist Pary with no scope for epposion in polis twas a sign of authortarinism. 7. Ifthe Soviet Union had not disintegrated and the world had remained bipolar, how would that situation have affected the world politics? case 2015 ANS. Ifthe Soviet Union had not disintegrated, it would have affected the world politics in the following manner * The USA would not have become so powerful and its hegemony would not have becn established. It would not be interfering in the world affairs more unilateral. + The world would have headed towards a Third World War, if there was no disintegration of USSR. The war ‘would have Been more devastating and destructive. + The disintegration of USSR led to the independence ‘of many countries which were part of erstwhile USSR This would have not been possible without the disintegration [After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, USA's position in the UNO alzo became very strong. ‘Almost all the decisions in UNO were taken under the influence of USA. This situation could have Been different if there was no collapse of USSR. + Most of the former Soviet Republics which are passing through conflicts and Civil Wars, would not have gone through this agony. + Accumulation of nuclear weapons would have ‘continued endlesly Picture Based Questions 4) Who has been represented by cartoon wearing. cap? (Gi) What does this cartoon ty to speak? Which event ccan be correlated with this cartoon? (Gil) “You posed a potential threat’. What does this refer? Ans. (i) Inthe above picture, US has been represented by the cartoon wearing a cap. (ii) This cartoon tried to speak about the hegemony of USA over the world. The US response to 9/11 attack. against Al-Qaeda and Taliban can be correlated ‘with this earteon. (Gl) This statement refers to 9/11 attack which was an attack on the US hegemony. So in response they launched operation Enduring Freedom to teach a lesson fo the countries if itis dared to repeat.Map Based Questions ‘Ona political outline map of the world locate and label the following and symbolise them as indicated 1. The country iraq invaded in August 1990. 2. The country in the president ship of Saddam Hussein. 3. The country referred to as a hegemonic power. 4. The Operation Infinite Reach was launched against these countries. Ans 1 Kuwait(A) ——2.1eaq (B) 3. The USA (C) 4. Afghanistan and Sudan (D) and (E)Vis eS 1 ‘Objective Type Questions 1L. Who was the successor of Lenin? (a) Leonid Brezhnev (b) Boris Yeltsin {e) Joseph Stalin (a) Mikhail Gorbachev 2. Arrange the following in correct sequence. 1. Socialist Revolution in Russia 2. The Berlin War Broken 3. India Russian Strategic Agreement 4. Russian Parliament declares its independence from Soviet Union. Codes, (a) 4.2, 1and3 (b) 1.2.3and4 (0) 4.3, 2and1 (a) 1.2.4and3 . Consider the following statement about the Berlin Wall and choose the correct option(s). (2) The Berlin Wall symbolised the division between the capitalist and the communist world. (b) leas builtin 1965. {(€) The wall was more then 150 km long and it stood for 28 years. (2) Both (a) and (c) ‘Very Short Answer Type Questions 1, What is Soviet System? 2. Why did Soviet economy became fragile and stagnant? 8. Why did Czechoslovakia disintegrate? ‘Short Answer Type Questions 1. Define the characteristics of the political system evolved after the disintegration of USSR. 12. Give a short account of collapse of communism in East Europe. 3. What role did Boris Yeltsin played in the coup of 1991? 4, Write any four characteristics of the Soviet System after the Second World War Long Answer Type Questions 1. Discuss in brief about the conflicts in Central Asia. 2. Discuss the safety measures undertaken by Gorbachev to pacify the stagnation of USSR. 3. Elucidate the reasons necessary for the reforms in USSR.