The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), or Soviet Union, was a massive Eurasian country that existed from 1922 to 1991. As the world's largest country, it spanned eleven time zones and bordered twelve nations. Although nominally a federal union of fifteen republics, it was effectively governed by a centralized communist system led by the Communist Party. The Soviet Union was a major global power and the world's third-most populous country. Its capital and largest city was Moscow, with other major urban centers including Leningrad, Kiev, Tashkent, and Baku.
1905: Emergence of Soviets During the 1905 Revolution
Soviets, councils of workers, first emerged during the 1905 Russian Revolution, although they were quickly suppressed.
1905: The 1905 Russian Revolution
The 1905 Russian Revolution, sparked by social unrest and military defeat, led to some political reforms, including the establishment of the Duma.
1906: Establishment of the State Duma
Following the 1905 Revolution, the State Duma, a parliament, was established in 1906 but faced resistance from Tsar Nicholas II.
February 1917: Bolshevik Party Membership Surge
The Bolshevik party experienced a significant increase in membership, growing from 24,000 in February 1917 to 200,000 by September 1917.
March 1917: February Revolution and Abdication of Tsar Nicholas II
In March 1917, a demonstration in Petrograd demanding peace and bread escalated into the February Revolution. This led to the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II and the end of the tsarist autocracy. The social-democratic Russian Provisional Government took over, aiming to hold elections and continue fighting in World War I.
September 1917: Workers' Support for Bolsheviks
By September 1917, 50,000 workers had demonstrated their support for the Bolsheviks' call for the transfer of power to the Soviets.
November 1917: Bolsheviks Seize Power, October Revolution
On November 7, 1917, Bolshevik Red Guards, under Lenin's leadership, seized control of the Winter Palace in Petrograd. They arrested the Provisional Government, marking the event that would be later termed the "Great October Socialist Revolution". Lenin's government introduced progressive measures like universal education and healthcare but also initiated the Red Terror to suppress opposition.
1917: State of Religious Institutions Before Bolshevik Revolution
Before the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917, a significant number of churches, synagogues, and mosques were operational, providing a baseline for understanding the scale of their subsequent closure.
1917: Bolsheviks Initiate Economic and Political Restructuring
Immediately following their rise to power in 1917, the Bolsheviks began a radical restructuring of the Russian economy, industry, and politics, guided in part by Lenin's Initial Decrees.
1917: State of Healthcare in Pre-Revolution Russia
In 1917, before the revolution, Russia's healthcare system lagged significantly behind those of developed nations.
1917: Women's Suffrage in Russia
In a landmark event in 1917, Russia became the first major power to grant women the right to vote. This decision was influenced by the significant demographic changes brought about by World War I, where heavy casualties resulted in women outnumbering men by a ratio of 4:3. This change led to a more prominent role for women in Russian society.
1917: October Revolution and the Rise of the Bolsheviks
The Bolsheviks, led by Vladimir Lenin, seized power in the October Revolution of 1917, overthrowing the Provisional Government and establishing the Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic (RSFSR).
1917: Outbreak of Russian Civil War
The Russian Civil War, a long and bloody conflict between the Reds (Bolsheviks) and the Whites, began in 1917.
1917: Abolition of the State Council
The State Council, which functioned as a council of ministers in the Russian Empire, was abolished in 1917 following the February Revolution.
1917: Soviets in the 1917 Revolution
Workers' and soldiers' Soviets reemerged during the 1917 February Revolution, sharing power with the Provisional Government and ultimately becoming instrumental in the Bolshevik rise to power.
February 1918: Resumption of Fighting with Central Powers
Despite signing an armistice with the Central Powers in December 1917, fighting resumed in February 1918.
October 1918: Lenin's Social Reforms
In October 1918, Lenin's government introduced a series of liberal social reforms, including liberalized divorce and abortion laws, the decriminalization of homosexuality, and the acceptance of cohabitation. These reforms aimed to promote women's equality.
1918: Establishment of the Soviet Healthcare System
The Soviet Union established its healthcare system in 1918 under the People's Commissariat for Health. This system, known as the Semashko model, aimed to provide free and state-controlled healthcare to all citizens.
1918: Decree on Separation of Church and State in the Russian SFSR
The 1918 Council of People's Commissars decree established the Russian SFSR as a secular state and banned religious teachings in educational institutions, marking the beginning of state-sponsored atheism.
1918: Establishment of Turkestan and Volga German ASSRs
In 1918, the Turkestan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Volga German Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were established within the Soviet Union.
March 1919: Hungarian Soviet Republic Established
The Hungarian Soviet Republic, supported by the Russian Bolsheviks, was established in March 1919.
August 1919: Fall of Hungarian Soviet Republic
The Hungarian Soviet Republic, after facing opposition and limited support from the Russian Bolsheviks, fell in August 1919.
1919: Establishment of Bashkir ASSR
The Bashkir Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1919.
1920: Establishment of Kirghiz and Tatar ASSRs
The Kirghiz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Tatar Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were established in 1920.
1920: Coal and Factory Production Decline
The Russian Civil War led to a significant decline in coal and factory production by 1920, illustrating the war's crippling effect on industrial output.
1921: Establishment of Nakhichevan ASSR
The Nakhichevan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1921.
1921: Shift in Bolshevik Strategy
Recognizing the stabilization of capitalism in Europe, Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin shifted the Bolshevik strategy from supporting global revolutions to protecting their position in Russia in 1921.
1921: Establishment of Adjarian, Crimean, Dagestan, and Mountain ASSRs
In 1921, the Adjarian, Crimean, Dagestan, and Mountain Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republics were established.
1921: New Economic Policy (NEP)
Faced with economic devastation, Lenin introduced the New Economic Policy (NEP) in 1921, allowing for limited private enterprise and trade.
April 1922: Stalin Appointed General Secretary
Stalin's appointment as General Secretary of the Communist Party in April 1922, a position that Lenin had previously held, provided him with a significant power base.
December 1922: Formation of the Soviet Union
On December 28, 1922, representatives from the Russian SFSR, Transcaucasian SFSR, Ukrainian SSR, and Byelorussian SSR approved the Treaty on the Creation of the USSR, leading to the formal establishment of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics on December 30, 1922.
December 1922: Formation of the Soviet Union
In December 1922, the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was founded, merging the Russian SFSR and other puppet states acquired during the Russian Civil War.
December 1922: Soviet Constitution Adopted
A new Soviet Constitution was adopted in 1924, legitimizing the union formed in December 1922.
1922: Formation of the Soviet Union
The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), also known as the Soviet Union, was established in 1922.
1922: Establishment of Yakut ASSR
The Yakut Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1922.
1922: Lenin Proposes a Union of Soviet Republics
Lenin proposed the formation of a union of Soviet republics, initially called the Union of Soviet Republics of Europe and Asia, which eventually became the USSR.
1922: Famine Devastates Russia
A devastating famine, exacerbated by forced food requisitioning, drought, and the ongoing war, ravaged Russia in 1921-1922, resulting in millions of deaths.
1922: UK Opens Trade Relations
The United Kingdom, dismissing Churchill's warnings, opened trade relations and de facto diplomatic recognition with the Soviet Union in 1922.
1922: End of Famine in Russia
Marking the end of a period of immense suffering, the Russian famine, exacerbated by war and economic policies, concluded in 1922. The famine had a profound impact on the country's population and social fabric.
1923: Establishment of Dynamo Sports Society
In the summer of 1923, the Proletarian Sports Society "Dynamo", an organization linked to the Soviet secret police (Cheka), was established in Moscow, marking an early step in the development of Soviet sports.
1923: Establishment of Buryat ASSR
The Buryat Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1923.
1923: Red Victory in the Civil War
The Russian Civil War ended in 1923 with a victory for the Reds, resulting in the consolidation of Soviet power.
February 1924: UK Recognizes the USSR
In February 1924, the United Kingdom formally recognized the USSR.
1924: Lenin's Death and Stalin's Rise
Following Lenin's death in 1924, Joseph Stalin rose to power, marking a turning point in Soviet history.
1924: Power Struggle Following Lenin's Death
Following Lenin's death in 1924, a power struggle emerged, centering on the future direction of the Soviet economy. A proposed 'troika' of Zinoviev, Kamenev, and Stalin was meant to replace Lenin.
1924: Establishment of Moldavian ASSR
The Moldavian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1924.
1924: Promulgation of the First Soviet Constitution
The Soviet Union adopted its first constitution in 1924, laying the groundwork for the country's legal and political framework.
1924: Formal Recognition by UK Labour Party
The new Labour Party in the UK granted formal recognition to the Soviet Union in 1924, leading other nations to follow suit in opening trade.
1924: Dissolution of Turkestan, Mountain, and Kirghiz ASSRs
The year 1924 saw the dissolution of the Turkestan, Mountain, and Kirghiz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republics.
1924: Formation of Central Asian Republics
During national delimitation in Central Asia in 1924, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan were formed.
July 1925: Communist Party Statement on Physical Culture
On July 1925, the Central Committee of the Russian Communist Party issued a statement outlining the importance of physical culture in Soviet society and the party's role in leading the physical culture movement.
September 1925: Establishment of the Soviet Armed Forces Structure
The structure of the Soviet Armed Forces was officially established in September 1925.
1925: Establishment of the League of Militant Atheists
The Soviet government, in 1925, founded the League of Militant Atheists to further propagate atheism and intensify the anti-religious campaign, reflecting its commitment to suppressing religion.
1925: Establishment of Chuvash ASSR
The Chuvash Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1925.
1926: USSR Birth and Mortality Rates
In 1926, the USSR recorded a birth rate of 44.0 per thousand and a mortality rate of 23.7 per thousand. The birth rates were notably higher in the southern republics compared to the northern regions.
1926: Establishment of Kirghiz ASSR
The Kirghiz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1926.
October 1927: Zinoviev and Trotsky Expelled
As Stalin consolidated his power, he orchestrated the expulsion of rivals Zinoviev and Trotsky from the Central Committee in October 1927, forcing them into exile.
1927: Beginning of a Sharp Decline in Orthodox Churches
From 1927 onwards, the number of Orthodox Churches in Russia witnessed a sharp decline, marking a period of intense persecution and closure of religious institutions.
1927: Beginning of Totalitarian State
The Soviet Union became a totalitarian state in 1927 under Joseph Stalin, marking a period of severe limitations on human rights, including suppression of free speech and political dissent.
1928: Stalin Launches First Five-Year Plan
In 1928, Stalin introduced the first Five-Year Plan focused on rapidly industrializing the Soviet Union and building a socialist economy, a departure from Lenin's internationalist approach.
1928: Baseline for Soviet Economic Growth Comparison
This year serves as the baseline for comparing the Soviet Union's economic growth with other countries having similar per-capita GDP. The Soviet Union experienced substantial growth from this point.
1928: Start of Stalin's Economic Policies
Under Stalin's leadership, starting in 1928, the Soviet Union underwent rapid industrialization and forced collectivization of agriculture.
1929: Full Central Planning
By 1929, Stalin had abandoned the NEP and implemented full central planning of the economy.
1929: Formation of Tajikistan
Tajikistan was established as a republic separate from Uzbekistan in 1929.
1929: Intensification of Restrictions on Religious Activities
The Soviet Union further restricted religious activities in 1929, including banning organized Bible study meetings, as part of its ongoing campaign to suppress religion.
1929: Dissolution of Tajik ASSR
The Tajik Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved in 1929.
1930: Beginning of Forced Collectivization and Famine
Stalin's policy of forced collectivization began in 1930, leading to significant economic growth but also contributing to a devastating famine.
1931: Establishment of Abkhaz ASSR
The Abkhaz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1931.
1931: GOELRO Plan Fulfilled
The GOELRO plan, a blueprint for electrifying Russia and a model for future Five-Year Plans, was successfully completed by 1931.
1932: Establishment of Karakalpak ASSR
The Karakalpak Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1932.
1932: Re-criminalization of Homosexuality in the USSR
Homosexuality, which was decriminalized in 1918, was re-criminalized in the USSR in 1932.
1932: USSR Participates in World Disarmament Conference
From 1932 to 1934, marking a period of increased international cooperation, the USSR participated in the World Disarmament Conference.
1933: US and USSR Establish Diplomatic Relations
In a significant political development in 1933, the United States, under the leadership of the newly elected President Franklin D. Roosevelt, formally recognized Stalin's Communist government, paving the way for normalized relations and a new trade agreement.
1933: End of the Soviet Famine
The Soviet famine, resulting from forced collectivization and other factors, lasted from 1930 to 1933, causing millions of deaths.
1933: US Recognition of USSR
The United States officially recognized the USSR in 1933, driven by public opinion and business interests hoping for a profitable new market.
September 1934: USSR Joins League of Nations
In September 1934, seeking to maintain peace and security on the international stage, the USSR joined the League of Nations.
1934: Establishment of Mordovian and Udmurt ASSRs
In 1934, the Mordovian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Udmurt Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were established.
1934: OGPU Merges with NKVD
In 1934, the OGPU, the Soviet secret police, was merged into the NKVD.
1934: Popular Front Program
Stalin reversed his stance against non-Marxist groups in 1934, launching the Popular Front program that encouraged alliances with anti-fascist forces, particularly against the Nazis.
1935: Establishment of Kalmyk ASSR
The Kalmyk Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1935.
December 1936: Stalin Unveils New Soviet Constitution
In December 1936, Stalin presented a new Soviet Constitution, which garnered praise from supporters globally who viewed it as an exemplary model of democracy. However, this acclaim was accompanied by skepticism from some quarters.
1936: Stalin's Reversal of Liberal Laws
In 1936, driven by concerns over declining birth rates and their potential impact on military power, Stalin reversed most of the liberal laws enacted in 1918, ushering in a pronatalist era.
1936: Establishment of Checheno-Ingush, Kabardino-Balkarian, Komi, and Mari ASSRs
In 1936, the Checheno-Ingush, Kabardino-Balkarian, Komi, and Mari Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republics were established.
1936: Dissolution of Kazakh and Kirghiz ASSRs
The Kazakh Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Kirghiz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1936.
1936: Establishment of North Ossetian ASSR
The North Ossetian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1936.
1936: Adoption of Stalin's Constitution
The Soviet Union adopted a new constitution in 1936, often referred to as "Stalin's Constitution." This constitution, while nominally democratic, centralized power and ushered in an era of political repression.
1936: Dissolution of Transcaucasian SFSR
The Transcaucasian SFSR was dissolved in 1936, resulting in Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan becoming Union Republics.
1936: Republics Renamed as Soviet Socialist Republics
All Soviet republics were officially renamed as Soviet Socialist Republics in 1936.
1937: Great Terror Begins in the USSR
The year 1937 marked the commencement of the Great Terror, a period characterized by widespread political repression and violence under Stalin's rule, belying the promises of the newly adopted 1936 Constitution.
1937: Height of Stalin's Great Purge
During 1937 and 1938, Stalin's Great Purge reached its peak, resulting in the detention or execution of numerous 'Old Bolsheviks' who had played a significant role in the October Revolution.
1937: Peak of Persecution Against Orthodox Priests
In 1937, during the Great Purge, over 85,000 Orthodox priests were executed, demonstrating the brutal persecution faced by religious figures under Stalin's rule.
1938: Conclusion of Stalin's Great Purge
The year 1938 marked the end of Stalin's Great Purge, a brutal period of political repression and violence that led to the deaths of many, including a large number of 'Old Bolsheviks.'
August 1939: Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact Signed
In a significant geopolitical shift in August 1939, the Soviet Union signed the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact with Nazi Germany, a move that included a secret protocol enabling the Soviet invasion of Eastern European states and the subsequent occupation of their territories.
December 1939: USSR Expelled from League of Nations
As a consequence of invading Finland in December 1939, the Soviet Union faced expulsion from the League of Nations, a move that highlighted the international community's condemnation of the aggression.
1939: The Nazi-Soviet Pact
The USSR and Nazi Germany signed a non-aggression pact in 1939, despite their ideological differences.
March 1940: Establishment of the Karelo-Finnish SSR
Following the Soviet invasion of Finland, the Karelo-Finnish SSR was established in March 1940 on annexed territory.
August 1940: Expansion of the USSR
In August 1940, the Soviet Union expanded further by annexing Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania as Union Republics and forming the Moldavian SSR.
1940: Less than 2% of Orthodox Churches Remain Open
The number of Orthodox Churches in Russia plummeted from 29,584 to less than 500 between 1927 and 1940, representing a drastic reduction to less than 2% of their pre-revolution numbers.
1940: Soviet Annexation of Baltic States
In 1940, the Soviet Union annexed Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, incorporating them into the USSR. This annexation was considered illegal by the Baltic states and much of the international community.
1940: Dissolution of Karelian and Moldavian ASSRs
The Karelian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Moldavian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1940.
1940: Elimination of Illiteracy in the USSR
By 1940, the Soviet Union, under Stalin's leadership, declared the elimination of illiteracy. This achievement was a result of the government's significant emphasis on education and its efforts to increase literacy rates throughout the 1930s.
1940: Widespread Closure and Repurposing of Religious Institutions
By 1940, almost 90% of churches, synagogues, and mosques operating in 1917 were closed, with many demolished or repurposed for state use, demonstrating the extent of religious persecution.
April 1941: Soviet–Japanese Neutrality Pact
In April 1941, seeking to secure its eastern borders while engaged in war in the west, the USSR signed the Soviet–Japanese Neutrality Pact with Japan, a strategic move to avoid a two-front war. However, the Soviets would later break this pact in 1945.
1941: Start of Excess Deaths in the Soviet Union During World War II
The year 1941 saw the beginning of a tragic period of excess deaths in the Soviet Union due to World War II. The immense human cost of the war led to a significant decline in the Soviet population.
1941: Dissolution of Volga German ASSR
The Volga German Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved in 1941.
1941: High Casualties in the USSR during World War II
The year 1941 marked the beginning of a period of immense human cost for the USSR as they faced the German invasion, suffering catastrophic casualties during World War II, with millions losing their lives.
1941: Stalin's Consolidation of Power within the Communist Party
In 1941, Joseph Stalin solidified his authority within the Communist Party, exercising control directly through his position in the Council of Ministers rather than the Politburo. This marked a period of highly personalized leadership.
1941: Stalin's Dual Leadership Roles
From 1941 to 1953, Joseph Stalin held the positions of both party leader and Premier, solidifying his control over both the Communist Party and the government.
1941: Drastic Reduction in Functioning Orthodox Priests
By 1941, only one-twelfth of Russian Orthodox Church priests remained functioning in their parishes, highlighting the devastating impact of the Soviet government's anti-religious campaigns.
1941: Limited Number of Churches Remain Open After Years of Persecution
By 1941, only 500 out of 54,000 churches remained open after years of persecution, confiscation of religious property, and harassment of believers, illustrating the suppression of religious freedom.
January 1942: US Lend-Lease Aid to the USSR
Beginning in January 1942 and continuing until May 1945, the US provided substantial material aid to the USSR under the Lend-Lease program, reflecting the Allied cooperation during World War II.
1942: Battle of Stalingrad Begins
The Battle of Stalingrad, commencing in late 1942 and concluding in early 1943, marked a turning point in World War II, with the Soviet forces inflicting a devastating defeat on the German army, significantly weakening their advance.
August 1943: Allied Recognition of USSR's War Efforts
By August 1943, the pivotal role of the USSR in World War II was widely acknowledged, with Harry Hopkins, a close advisor to President Roosevelt, highlighting the immense burden borne by the Soviet Union in engaging the majority of German forces.
1943: Dissolution of Kalmyk ASSR
The Kalmyk Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved in 1943.
1944: Dissolution of Checheno-Ingush and Kabardino-Balkarian ASSRs
The Checheno-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1944.
1944: Establishment of Kabardin ASSR
The Kabardin Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1944.
May 1945: End of US Lend-Lease Aid to the USSR
May 1945 marked the conclusion of the US Lend-Lease program, under which significant material aid was provided to the USSR during World War II.
1945: End of Excess Deaths in the Soviet Union During World War II
The year 1945 marked the end of World War II and, with it, the end of a period of devastating excess deaths in the Soviet Union. The war's impact on demographics was substantial and long-lasting.
1945: Soviet Victory in World War II
The Soviet Union played a decisive role in defeating Nazi Germany in 1945, but suffered immense casualties, with an estimated 27 million lives lost.
1945: USSR Breaks Neutrality Pact with Japan
In 1945, the USSR made the strategic decision to break the Soviet–Japanese Neutrality Pact, which had been signed in 1941.
1945: Cold War Begins
The Cold War, a period of geopolitical tension between the US and the Soviet Union, began in 1945 following World War II.
1945: Dissolution of Crimean ASSR
In 1945, the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved.
1945: End of World War II and Establishment of Soviet Borders
In 1945, following the end of World War II, the Soviet Union established its borders, which spanned over 60,000 kilometers, marking the largest in the world. These borders touched twelve countries: Afghanistan, China, Czechoslovakia, Finland, Hungary, Iran, Mongolia, North Korea, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Turkey.
1945: USSR Emerges as a Superpower
By 1945, following its pivotal role in the Allied victory in World War II, the USSR emerged as a global superpower, wielding significant political and military influence on the world stage.
1946: Renaming of the Council of People's Commissars
In 1946, the Council of People's Commissars underwent a name change, becoming the Council of Ministers. This renaming reflected an evolution in terminology and government structure.
1946: Renaming of Foreign Affairs Body
The People's Commissariat for Foreign Affairs, responsible for Soviet foreign policy operations, was renamed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1946.
1948: Formation of Air Defense Forces
The Soviet Air Defense Forces were established in 1948.
1949: Establishment of Comecon
The Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (Comecon) was formed in 1949 as an economic organization of Soviet-controlled states in Eastern Europe, designed to counter the influence of the West's Marshall Plan and EEC.
April 1951: Formation and Recognition of the Soviet Olympic Committee
The Soviet Olympic Committee was formed in April 1951 and quickly gained recognition by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), marking the USSR's official entry into the Olympic Movement.
1952: Soviet Athletes Debut at Helsinki Olympics
The 1952 Summer Olympics in Helsinki marked the first Olympic Games for Soviet athletes, signifying the beginning of their long and successful history in international sporting competitions.
1952: Renaming of the Politburo to the Presidium
The Politburo, a key decision-making body within the Communist Party, was renamed the Presidium in 1952. This change lasted until 1966.
March 1953: Stalin's Death and the Rise of Khrushchev
Following Joseph Stalin's death in March 1953, a power struggle ensued within the Soviet leadership. Nikita Khrushchev emerged victorious, ushering in an era of de-Stalinization and reforms.
1953: Change in Party Leadership Title and Stalin's Death
The year 1953 saw a significant shift in the Communist Party as the title of "First Secretary" was adopted, replacing "General Secretary." This period also marked the end of Stalin's rule, leading to a power struggle within the Politburo.
1953: Suppression of East German Uprising
The Soviet Army intervened to suppress the uprising in East Germany in 1953.
1953: End of Stalin's Reign and Transition of Power
Stalin's death in 1953 brought an end to his era of leadership. This transition led to a period of internal struggle within the Communist Party as different factions vied for power.
1953: Stalin's Death
Joseph Stalin, who controlled the Soviet Union's foreign relations during the interwar period, died in 1953.
1953: End of Stalin's Rule
Joseph Stalin's rule and the totalitarian state in the Soviet Union ended in 1953.
1953: Stalin's Death and De-Stalinization
After Stalin's death in 1953, Nikita Khrushchev initiated de-Stalinization, reversing some of Stalin's policies and causing tensions with China.
1954: Start of Soviet Dominance in International Ice Hockey
From 1954, the Soviet Union national ice hockey team established an era of dominance, consistently winning world championships and Olympic tournaments, demonstrating their prowess in the sport.
1955: Formation of the Warsaw Pact
In 1955, the Soviet Union established the Warsaw Pact, a military alliance comprising Eastern European nations. This alliance served to consolidate Soviet control over the region and counterbalance NATO.
1955: Formation of the Warsaw Pact
In response to NATO, the Soviet Union formed the Warsaw Pact in 1955, solidifying the Eastern Bloc.
July 1956: Start of the 15 Union Republics Period
From July 1956 until September 1991, the USSR consisted of 15 union republics.
1956: Khrushchev's Secret Speech and De-Stalinization
In 1956, Nikita Khrushchev, having consolidated his power, delivered a secret speech denouncing Stalin's crimes and initiating a period of de-Stalinization, characterized by relaxed control over the Communist Party and Soviet society.
1956: Hungarian Uprising and Soviet Intervention
In 1956, a popular uprising in Hungary challenging Soviet control was met with swift and brutal military intervention, highlighting the Soviet Union's determination to maintain its grip on Eastern Europe.
1956: Establishment of Karelian ASSR
The Karelian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1956.
1956: Suppression of Hungarian Revolution
The Soviet Army suppressed the Hungarian Revolution in 1956.
1957: Dissolution of Kabardin ASSR and Establishment of Checheno-Ingush and Kabardino-Balkarian ASSRs
In 1957, the Kabardin Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved, and the Checheno-Ingush and Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republics were established.
1957: Soviet Space Firsts: Sputnik and Laika
The Soviet Union achieved groundbreaking milestones in space exploration in 1957 by launching Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite, and Sputnik 2 carrying Laika, the first living being in orbit.
1958: Renewed Emphasis on Atheism under Khrushchev
From 1958, the Soviet Union, under Khrushchev's leadership, renewed its emphasis on atheism in education and publications, leading to further closures of religious institutions.
1958: Khrushchev's Dual Leadership Roles
Nikita Khrushchev, following in Stalin's footsteps, assumed the roles of both party leader and Premier from 1958 to 1964, signifying a concentration of power.
1958: Establishment of Kalmyk ASSR
The Kalmyk Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1958.
1959: Sharp Decline in the Number of Churches and Synagogues
Between 1959 and 1965, the number of churches in the Soviet Union plummeted from 20,000 to 10,000, and synagogues from 500 to 97, highlighting the intensified suppression of religious institutions.
1959: Formation of Strategic Missile Forces
The Soviet Strategic Missile Forces were formed in 1959.
1960: Start of Period for Analysis of Per Capita Income Growth in Soviet Union
This year marks the beginning of the period analyzed for per capita income growth in the Soviet Union, which was later compared to the global average and became a point of study regarding the Soviet economic model.
April 1961: Yuri Gagarin Becomes First Human in Space
In April 1961, the USSR launched Vostok 1, carrying Yuri Gagarin, marking a pivotal moment in human history. Gagarin became the first person to venture into space and successfully complete a spaceflight.
1961: Establishment of Tuvan ASSR
The Tuvan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was established in 1961.
1961: Yuri Gagarin: First Human in Space
In 1961, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to journey into space, marking a pivotal moment in the Space Race and a major triumph for the Soviet Union.
October 1962: Cuban Missile Crisis
The Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962 brought the US and the Soviet Union to the brink of nuclear war, highlighting the dangers of the Cold War.
1962: Cuban Missile Crisis
In 1962, the world teetered on the brink of nuclear war during the Cuban Missile Crisis, sparked by the Soviet deployment of nuclear missiles in Cuba. The crisis was averted through negotiations, but it damaged Khrushchev's reputation.
1963: China Criticizes USSR's System
In 1963, the Chinese government publicly criticized the Soviet Union's political and economic system, denouncing it as revisionist and claiming that it had reverted to capitalism. This marked a significant escalation of the Sino-Soviet split.
1963: Valentina Tereshkova: First Woman in Space
Valentina Tereshkova etched her name in history by becoming the first woman to venture into space in 1963, further solidifying the Soviet Union's dominance in space exploration.
1964: Khrushchev Removed from Power
As a result of various factors, including the embarrassment of the Cuban Missile Crisis, Khrushchev was removed from power in 1964, marking the end of his era of reforms.
1964: Khrushchev's Removal and Prohibition of Dual Roles
Following Khrushchev's forced retirement in 1964, the Communist Party prohibited the holding of both party leadership and Premiership concurrently. This decision aimed to prevent the concentration of power in one individual.
1964: Leonid Brezhnev Becomes Leader of the Soviet Union
In 1964, Leonid Brezhnev assumed leadership of the Soviet Union, marking the beginning of his tenure, which would last until 1982.
1964: End of Khrushchev's Anti-Religious Campaign
Khrushchev's anti-religious campaign, marked by the closure of churches and suppression of religious practices, continued until 1964.
1965: Alexei Leonov's Spacewalk
In 1965, Alexei Leonov conducted the first spacewalk, a remarkable achievement that underscored the Soviet Union's technological prowess in space exploration.
1965: Economic Reform Attempt
An attempt was made in 1965 to legalize certain aspects of the decentralized economy, aiming to address consumer goods shortages.
1965: Continued Decline in Religious Institutions under Khrushchev
By 1965, the Soviet Union, under Khrushchev's leadership, had witnessed a significant decline in religious institutions, including a drastic reduction in the number of working mosques.
1966: Luna 9: First Soft Landing on the Moon
The Soviet Union achieved a significant milestone in lunar exploration in 1966 when Luna 9 successfully executed the first soft landing on the Moon.
1966: Reverting to Original Titles and Power Dynamics
The year 1966 saw the Communist Party revert to its original nomenclature for leadership positions, reinstating "General Secretary" and "Politburo." This change reflected a return to previous power structures within the party.
1968: Soviet Union Dominates Olympic Medal Standings
After 1968, the Soviet Union began to dominate the Olympics, consistently taking the top spot in the medal count. This dominance continued until the country's collapse in 1991.
1968: Prague Spring and the Brezhnev Doctrine
In 1968, the Soviet Union and its Warsaw Pact allies invaded Czechoslovakia to suppress the Prague Spring, a period of liberalization. The subsequent Brezhnev Doctrine asserted the USSR's right to intervene in its satellite states.
1968: Invasion of Czechoslovakia
Soviet forces invaded Czechoslovakia in 1968, putting down the Prague Spring liberalization movement.
1970: Beginning of Declining Fuel Demand in the Soviet Union
The Soviet Union started experiencing a decrease in fuel demand per ruble of gross social product and industrial product. Though initially rapid, this decline slowed down over the decade.
1970: USSR Infant Mortality Rate
In 1970, the infant mortality rate in the USSR was recorded at 24.7.
1970: Formation of National Civil Defense Forces
The National Civil Defense Forces were established in 1970.
1970: Decline in Soviet Economic Growth
Despite experiencing growth after World War II, the Soviet economy began to stagnate after 1970, with growth rates steadily declining.
1973: Signing of Human Rights Documents
The Soviet Union signed human rights documents like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in 1973. However, these documents were not widely known or enforced within the Soviet Union.
1974: Shifting Demographics in the USSR
By 1974, the birth rate in the USSR had dropped significantly to 18.0 per thousand, while the mortality rate also decreased to 8.7 per thousand. This shift was largely attributed to increased urbanization and a rise in the average age of marriage. However, the southern republics continued to experience higher birth rates due to slower urbanization and earlier marriage traditions.
1974: Soviet Union Ceases Publication of Infant Mortality Statistics
In 1974, the Soviet government stopped publishing statistics on infant mortality amid rising rates, possibly due to increased pregnancies in the Asian part of the country where infant mortality was highest.
1974: Rising Mortality Rates in the USSR
The year 1974 marked a concerning trend in the USSR with an increase in both adult and infant mortality rates. The infant mortality rate rose to 27.9, potentially due to deteriorating health conditions and services. This trend, particularly noticeable among working-age men and in Slavic regions, was not publicly addressed by Soviet officials, leading to a decade-long halt in the publication of mortality statistics.
1975: Slowdown in the Decline of Soviet Fuel Demand
The rapid decline in fuel demand within the Soviet Union, observed since 1970, began to slow down around this year. The decline further decelerated between 1975 and 1980, reaching a rate of 2.6%.
October 1977: Adoption of the Third Soviet Constitution
The Soviet Union adopted its third constitution in October 1977 during Brezhnev's rule.
1977: Constitution Acknowledges Party's Leading Role
The leading role of the Communist Party in shaping and enforcing Soviet policy was not formally acknowledged in the Soviet Constitution until 1977, demonstrating the discrepancy between constitutional theory and political reality.
1977: Right to Healthcare in the Soviet Constitution
The 1977 Soviet Constitution, specifically Article 42, enshrined the right to health protection and free access to healthcare institutions for all citizens.
1977: Implementation of the Brezhnev Constitution
In 1977, the Soviet Union implemented a new constitution during Leonid Brezhnev's leadership. This constitution, while maintaining the single-party system, emphasized social and economic rights.
1979: Soviet Intervention in Afghanistan
In 1979, the Soviet Union launched a military intervention in Afghanistan, aiming to support the communist government. This decision entangled the USSR in a costly and protracted conflict that further strained relations with the West.
1979: Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979, leading to a protracted conflict and renewed tensions with the West.
1979: Soviet-Afghan War Begins
The Soviet Union's intervention in the Afghanistan War began in 1979.
1980: Continued Slowdown of Soviet Fuel Demand and Projections for the Gas Industry
By 1980, the decline in Soviet fuel demand had slowed down considerably. Historian David Wilson predicted that the gas industry would constitute 40% of Soviet fuel production by the end of the century, a projection that didn't materialize due to the USSR's collapse.
1982: Poll Reveals Significant Number of Religious Believers
A 1982 poll conducted by Soviet authorities revealed that 20% of the population identified as 'active religious believers,' indicating the persistence of religious faith despite decades of suppression.
1982: Leonid Brezhnev's Rule Ends
Leonid Brezhnev's rule as the leader of the Soviet Union came to an end in 1982.
1982: Brezhnev's Death and the Era of Stagnation
The death of Leonid Brezhnev in 1982 marked the end of an era characterized by political stagnation and economic decline, later known as the Era of Stagnation.
1984: Soviet Boycott of 1984 Winter Olympics
In 1984, the Soviet Union and other Eastern Bloc nations boycotted the Winter Olympics held in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia. This boycott marked a significant event during the Cold War era.
1984: Soviet Union Prepares for 1984 Olympics with Doping Program
Documents revealed in 2016 exposed the Soviet Union's state-sponsored doping system implemented to enhance athletic performance in preparation for the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. This revelation shed light on the systematic doping practices employed by the Soviet Union during that period.
1985: Gorbachev's Reforms: Glasnost and Perestroika
Mikhail Gorbachev, the last Soviet leader, introduced glasnost and perestroika in 1985, aiming to reform the Soviet system.
1985: Rise of Mikhail Gorbachev
Mikhail Gorbachev's rise to power in 1985 marked a turning point for the Soviet Union, as he introduced perestroika and glasnost, aiming to revitalize the stagnating Soviet system.
1986: Study Published on Soviet Model and Quality of Life
A study published this year in the American Journal of Public Health asserted that, based on World Bank data, the Soviet model often provided superior quality of life and human development compared to market economies at similar development levels.
1986: Higher Education in the USSR
In 1986, statistics showed that the USSR had 181 higher education students per 10,000 people, compared to 517 in the US. Despite a centralized and universally accessible education system, unofficial Jewish quotas were implemented in leading institutions, requiring Jewish applicants to face stricter entrance exams. This practice reflected an antisemitic policy prevalent during that period. Additionally, all university applicants had to provide a reference from their local Komsomol party secretary, highlighting the political influence within the education system.
1986: Chernobyl Disaster
In 1986, the catastrophic explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant exposed the shortcomings of the Soviet system and fueled calls for greater transparency and reform.
1986: Chernobyl Disaster
The Chernobyl disaster, a major accident at a civilian nuclear power plant, occurred in the Soviet Union in 1986. This unprecedented event released a substantial amount of radioactive isotopes into the atmosphere, leading to widespread radioactive contamination.
1986: Mir Space Station Becomes Operational
The Soviet Union's Mir orbital station, built upon the Salyut stations, commenced operations in 1986. It was dedicated to civilian research tasks and marked a significant step in long-duration space habitation.
1987: Gorbachev Implements Perestroika
In 1987, Mikhail Gorbachev initiated perestroika, aiming to reform and invigorate the Soviet economy. While it relaxed state control over enterprises, the absence of replacing it with market incentives led to a significant output decline.
1988: Soviet Withdrawal from Afghanistan
The Soviet Union's decision to withdraw its forces from Afghanistan in 1988, after years of costly conflict, signaled a shift towards a less interventionist foreign policy.
1988: First Flight of the Buran Space Shuttle
The Soviet space shuttle Buran undertook its maiden flight in 1988. However, this significant technological feat was achieved without a human crew on board.
1988: Soviet Union as a Leading Oil Producer and Exporter
In 1988, the Soviet Union reached its peak as a major player in the global oil market. It became the top producer and second-largest exporter of crude oil globally, trailing only behind Saudi Arabia.
1988: Beginning of Economic Decline in Soviet Republics
Starting in 1988, the Soviet republics began experiencing a decline in economic and social conditions. This marked the beginning of a period of significant hardship for the people living in these republics.
1988: Revelation of the Soviet Union's Environmental Issues
In 1988, the extent of the Soviet Union's environmental problems became clear, revealing that they were far worse than previously acknowledged. As the world's second-largest polluter, the Soviet Union produced 79% of the harmful emissions compared to the United States, despite having a significantly lower GNP. This revelation highlighted the environmental consequences of the Soviet Union's industrial practices.
1988: Beginning of Gorbachev's Reforms
In 1988, Mikhail Gorbachev initiated reforms aimed at decentralizing power from the Communist Party and strengthening the Supreme Soviet. These reforms aimed to address economic stagnation and political ossification.
March 1989: First Competitive Elections for the Congress of People's Deputies
March 1989 marked a significant turning point in Soviet history with the first competitive elections for the Congress of People's Deputies. This event, a departure from the norm, allowed for a greater degree of democratic participation.
August 1989: Pan-European Picnic and the Fall of the Iron Curtain
The Pan-European Picnic, held in August 1989, served as a catalyst for the fall of the Iron Curtain, as thousands of East Germans crossed into Austria, marking a pivotal step towards German reunification.
1989: Worsening Economic Conditions in Soviet Republics
The economic decline that began in 1988 continued to worsen in 1989, exacerbating the challenges faced by the Soviet republics and contributing to growing social unrest.
1989: End of Period for Analysis of Per Capita Income Growth in Soviet Union
This year marks the end of the period studied for per capita income growth in the Soviet Union. Despite investment in education and population, per capita income was considered lower than it could have been, attributed to low capital productivity.
1989: Fall of the Berlin Wall and Collapse of Soviet Satellites
The year 1989 witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall and the collapse of Soviet-backed regimes across Eastern Europe, marking a pivotal moment in the fall of communism.
1989: Ethnic Russian and Ukrainian Migration in the Soviet Union
By 1989, approximately 25 million ethnic Russians and Ukrainians had migrated and settled within other Soviet republics, highlighting the significant internal migration patterns during the Soviet era.
1989: Soviet-Afghan War Ends
The Soviet-Afghan War concluded in 1989.
1989: Soviet Military Branches and Their Roles
By 1989, the Soviet military consisted of a large army, a significantly expanded navy known for its battlecruisers and submarines, an air force focused on strategic bombing, and strategic missile forces with a large number of ICBMs.
1989: Soviet Scientists Achieve Global Recognition in Specific Fields
By 1989, Soviet scientists earned recognition for their expertise in specific domains, including Energy physics, certain medical areas, mathematics, welding, and military technologies.
1989: Detailed Ethnic Demography of the Soviet Union
A comprehensive analysis of the Soviet Union's ethnic demographics in 1989 revealed a diverse population. East Slavic groups made up the largest proportion at 69.8%, followed by Turkic groups (17.5%), Armenians (1.6%), Balts (1.6%), Finnic groups (1.5%), Tajiks (1.5%), Georgians (1.4%), Moldovans (1.2%), and other ethnicities (4.1%).
1989: Election of Boris Yeltsin
In 1989, Boris Yeltsin was elected chairman of the newly convened Congress of People's Deputies of the Russian SFSR, marking a pivotal moment in Russia's political landscape.
March 1990: Lithuania Declares Independence
Following the victory of the Sąjūdis movement, Lithuania declared its independence from the Soviet Union on March 11, 1990, asserting the Soviet occupation as illegal.
April 1990: Law Allowing Republic Secession
In April 1990, a significant law was passed enabling a Soviet republic to secede if over two-thirds of its residents voted in favor of it through a referendum.
June 1990: Russia Declares Sovereignty
On June 12, 1990, the newly elected Congress of People's Deputies in Russia declared Russia's sovereignty over its territory. They began passing laws that challenged Soviet laws, escalating tensions between Russia and the Soviet central government.
1990: Dissolution of Mordovian, Udmurt, Komi, and Mari ASSRs
The Mordovian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Udmurt Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Komi Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, and the Mari Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1990.
1990: Start of Post-Soviet Economic Crisis
The year 1990 marked the beginning of a severe and protracted economic downturn across most former Soviet republics, leading to a dramatic surge in poverty.
1990: End of One-Party State
The Soviet Union transitioned from a one-party state to a multi-party system in 1990, marking a significant shift in its political landscape.
1990: Dissolution of Nakhichevan, Buryat, and Yakut ASSRs
The Nakhichevan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Buryat Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, and the Yakut Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1990.
1990: Establishment of the Russian SFSR's Republican Branch of the CPSU
The year 1990 marked a significant shift for the Russian SFSR as it established its own republican branch of the CPSU. Prior to this, the Russian SFSR was directly governed by the union-wide party, unlike other constituent republics.
1990: Dissolution of Bashkir and Tatar ASSRs
The Bashkir Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Tatar Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1990.
1990: Russian Language Becomes Official Language of Soviet Union
In 1990, the Russian language, already functioning as a de facto official language, was formally recognized as the official national language of the Soviet Union.
1990: Beginnings of Baltic Independence Movements
Around 1990, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania began actively pursuing independence from the collapsing Soviet Union.
1990: Dissolution of Kalmyk, North Ossetian, and Gorno-Altai ASSRs
In 1990, the Kalmyk Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the North Ossetian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, and the Gorno-Altai Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved.
1990: Creation of the Soviet Presidency
In 1990, Mikhail Gorbachev introduced and assumed the position of President of the Soviet Union, marking a significant shift in power dynamics. This move further reduced the Communist Party's control and placed more authority in the executive branch.
1990: Lithuania's Declaration of Independence
In 1990, Lithuania boldly declared its independence from the Soviet Union, setting a precedent for other republics seeking autonomy.
1990: Ethnic Composition of the Soviet Union
By 1990, Russians constituted the majority of the Soviet population at 50.78%, followed by Ukrainians (15.45%) and Uzbeks (5.84%).
1990: Soviet Union Achieves High Human Development Index Ranking
In 1990, the Soviet Union achieved a Human Development Index of 0.920, categorized as 'high' human development. It ranked third in the Eastern Bloc and 25th globally out of 130 nations.
March 1991: Referendum to Preserve the USSR
On March 17, 1991, a referendum was held in nine Soviet republics to decide the preservation of the USSR. The majority voted to maintain the Union as a renewed federation.
July 1991: Yeltsin Elected President of Russia
Boris Yeltsin was elected President of Russia in July 1991, further solidifying his power and influence in the rapidly changing political landscape.
August 1991: August Coup and Its Aftermath
In August 1991, hardline members of the Soviet government and the KGB initiated a coup attempt to halt Gorbachev's reforms. The coup's failure led to Yeltsin's rise as a hero and significantly weakened Gorbachev's authority. Latvia and Estonia seized the opportunity to declare the restoration of their full independence, following Lithuania's lead from the previous year.
August 1991: August Coup
In August 1991, a group of hardliners attempted a coup to overthrow Gorbachev, which ultimately failed. This event led to the weakening of the Soviet Union and Gorbachev's resignation as General Secretary.
September 1991: Dissolution of the USSR
The Soviet Union (USSR) was formally dissolved in September 1991.
December 1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
On December 8, 1991, the leaders of Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus signed the Belavezha Accords, declaring the dissolution of the Soviet Union and establishing the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). This event was solidified on December 21, 1991, when representatives from all Soviet republics (except Georgia) signed the Alma-Ata Protocol, confirming the accords.
1991: Sharp Increase in Unemployment and Male Death Rates
The year 1991 witnessed a dramatic increase in unemployment and male death rates in several former Soviet republics, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. This spike in unemployment and mortality rates highlighted the severe social and economic consequences of the Soviet Union's collapse.
1991: Dissolution of Yakut ASSR
The Yakut Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved in 1991.
1991: Cancellation of the Ptichka Space Shuttle Project
The Soviet space shuttle program experienced a setback with the cancellation of the Ptichka shuttle in 1991. This decision came after a prolonged construction period plagued by various challenges.
1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
The Soviet Union was dissolved in 1991, marking the end of an era.
1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
The Soviet Union, with its vast borders established in 1945, ceased to exist in 1991. This event marked the end of the Cold War and led to significant geopolitical shifts.
1991: End of the Soviet Command Economy
The Soviet command economy, characterized by central planning and state control, persisted until the dissolution of the USSR in late 1991.
1991: End of Soviet Union's Consistent Medal Streak in Ice Hockey
The Soviet Union national ice hockey team maintained their impressive streak of winning medals in every International Ice Hockey Federation tournament they participated in until 1991, cementing their legacy as a hockey powerhouse.
1991: Mixed Opinions on Soviet Union in Russia
In 1991, as the Soviet Union dissolved, public opinion in Russia regarding the former superpower was divided. According to the New Russia Barometer, 50% of Russian respondents expressed a positive view of the Soviet Union.
1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
Amidst political upheaval and secessionist movements, the Soviet Union was formally dissolved in 1991.
1991: Restoration of Baltic Independence
By 1991, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania successfully restored their independence, marking a significant turning point in the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
1991: Dissolution of Karelian, Checheno-Ingush, and Kabardino-Balkarian ASSRs
The Karelian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Checheno-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, and the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1991.
1991: Poor State of Dental Health in the Soviet Union
By 1991, the average 35-year-old in the Soviet Union had 12 to 14 cavities, fillings, or missing teeth, highlighting the notoriously poor state of dental technology and dental health in the country.
1991: Extensive Soviet Pipeline Network for Oil and Gas
By 1991, the Soviet Union possessed a vast pipeline network: 82,000 kilometers dedicated to crude oil and an additional 206,500 kilometers for natural gas transportation.
1991: Dissolution of Comecon
In 1991, marking the end of the Cold War and the Soviet sphere of influence, the Council for Mutual Economic Assistance (Comecon) was dissolved.
1991: Dissolution of Adjarian, Dagestan, and Gorno-Altai ASSRs
In 1991, the Adjarian, Dagestan, and Gorno-Altai Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republics were dissolved.
1991: Collapse of the Soviet Union
In 1991, the Soviet Union officially dissolved, marking the end of an era and significantly impacting the geopolitical landscape.
1991: Final Dissolution and End of the Cold War
In 1991, the Supreme Soviet, the highest governing body of the Soviet Union, dissolved itself and the country. This act marked the official end of the Soviet Union as a functioning state, bringing a close to the Cold War.
1991: Ethnic Diversity of the Soviet Union
In 1991, the ethnically diverse Soviet Union had a population of approximately 293 million.
February 1992: Agreement on Cultural Property Restitution Stalled
In February 1992, an agreement regarding the return of cultural and historical artifacts to their countries of origin was signed by Russia and other former Soviet republics in Minsk. However, the Russian State Duma obstructed the agreement, passing a law that effectively prevented the return of cultural heritage looted by Soviet forces during World War II.
1992: Russia as USSR's Successor
In 1992, Russia was internationally recognized as the legal successor to the USSR. Russia assumed the Soviet Union's foreign debt and claimed its overseas assets. The Lisbon Protocol saw Russia agreeing to take control of all Soviet nuclear weapons located within the borders of other former Soviet republics.
1992: Dissolution of Checheno-Ingush, Kabardino-Balkarian, Crimean, and Tuvan ASSRs
In 1992, the Checheno-Ingush Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, and the Tuvan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved.
1992: Dissolution of Abkhaz and Karakalpak ASSRs
The Abkhaz Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic and the Karakalpak Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic were dissolved in 1992.
1992: Dissolution of Chuvash ASSR
The Chuvash Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was dissolved in 1992.
1993: Continued Economic Hardship in Former Soviet Republics
The economic struggles of the former Soviet republics persisted in 1993, with many experiencing ongoing poverty, crime, corruption, and other social problems. The transition from a centrally planned economy to a market-based system proved difficult.
1994: End of Sharp Increase in Unemployment and Male Death Rates
By 1994, the rapid increase in unemployment and male death rates observed in some former Soviet republics from 1991 onwards began to stabilize. While still elevated, the rates no longer showed the same dramatic upward trend.
1995: Gini Ratio Increase in Former Soviet Republics
By 1995, the Gini ratio, a measure of income inequality, had risen significantly in all former Soviet republics compared to the period between 1988 and 1989. This indicated a growing gap between the rich and poor.
1998: End of Mir Space Station's Exclusive Operational Period
For a period of 12 years, from 1986 to 1998, the Mir space station held the distinction of being the sole operational orbital station. This period ended with the advent of other space stations.
1998: End of Study Period for Post-Soviet Mortality Analysis
The year 1998 marked the end of the period analyzed by economist Steven Rosefielde in his study on the increased mortality rates in Russia following the Soviet Union's collapse.
2000: Positive Impression of Soviet Union Grows in Russia
By the year 2000, positive perceptions of the Soviet Union had grown significantly in Russia, with approximately 75% of New Russia Barometer respondents reporting a favorable view. This increase in positive sentiment suggested a growing nostalgia for the Soviet era.
2001: Study on Post-Soviet Mortality Rates
In 2001, economist Steven Rosefielde published a study indicating that the abrupt economic transition following the collapse of the Soviet Union resulted in a significant increase in premature deaths in Russia, highlighting the devastating social and human cost of the period.
2001: Deorbiting and Destruction of Mir Space Station
In 2001, the decision was made to deorbit the Mir space station. After a fire and significant deterioration, the station was guided back into the Earth's atmosphere, where it burned up.
2005: World Health Organization Report on Chernobyl's Long-Term Effects
In 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on the long-term effects of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster. While the full extent of the consequences remained unknown, the report highlighted 4,000 new cases of thyroid cancer directly linked to the accident's contamination.
2009: Slight Decline in Positive Views of Soviet Union
In 2009, while still high, the percentage of Russians holding positive views of the Soviet Union saw a slight decline to 71%, as indicated by the New Russia Barometer. This dip suggested a potential plateauing of Soviet nostalgia.
2010: Economic Rebound in Some Former Soviet Republics
By 2010, two decades after the collapse of the Soviet Union, some former Soviet republics experienced a significant economic resurgence, with their economies growing considerably larger than they were in 1991.
2011: Analysis of Former Soviet Countries
In 2011, The Guardian published an analysis examining the state of former Soviet republics two decades after the USSR's demise. The analysis revealed a stark economic decline throughout the 1990s, followed by a period of recovery in the 2000s.
2012: Lowest Recorded Support for the Soviet Union in Russia
In 2012, support for the Soviet Union in Russia dipped below 50% for the only time since its collapse, according to the Levada Center's annual polling. This marked a significant, albeit temporary, shift in public opinion.
2015: Banning of Antony Beevor's Books in Russia
In 2015, books by historian Antony Beevor, which discussed sensitive historical events, including the mass rapes committed by Soviet soldiers in occupied Germany during and after World War II, faced a ban in some Russian schools and colleges, sparking controversy and highlighting the ongoing debate over historical narratives.
2016: Nostalgia for Soviet Economic Stability
By 2016, a significant number of Russians, up to 53% according to polls, expressed nostalgia for the perceived economic stability of the Soviet era, particularly the advantages of the shared economic union between the Soviet republics. This sentiment highlighted the challenges faced by many in post-Soviet Russia.
2016: Soviet Doping Program Exposed
Documents revealing the Soviet Union's elaborate state-sponsored doping system, particularly for the 1984 Olympics, were discovered and made public. This revelation sent shockwaves through the international sporting community.
2018: Positive View of Brezhnev in Ukraine
A 2018 poll conducted by the Rating Sociological Group in Ukraine found that 47% of respondents had a positive view of Leonid Brezhnev, who had led the Soviet Union from 1964 to 1982. This contrasted sharply with negative views of Lenin, Stalin, and Gorbachev.
2018: Record High Regret for the Fall of the Soviet Union
A 2018 poll revealed that 66% of Russians regretted the collapse of the Soviet Union, marking a 15-year high. This sentiment was particularly strong among those over 55.
2020: Majority of Russians View Soviet Era as Greatest in History
In 2020, polls conducted by the Levada Center indicated that 75% of Russians considered the Soviet era to be the greatest period in their country's history. This finding demonstrated the enduring legacy of the Soviet Union in the minds of many Russians.
2021: Record-High Favorability for Stalin in Russia
In 2021, a poll revealed that a record-high 70% of Russians held mostly or very favorable views of Joseph Stalin, a controversial figure in Soviet history. This finding sparked debate and analysis about the evolving perceptions of Stalin's legacy in Russia.