Discusses the history of revolution in Russia, describes events that precipitated the fall of communism in the U.S.S.R. in 1991, looks at the changes that occurred with the dissolution of the Soviet Union, and features essays on related topics, including the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, the Berlin Wall, and others.

A failed coup -- Between imperial rule and the push for democracy -- Gorbachev! -- On the eve of change -- The end of the USSR.