: He contends that Western historians often err by oversimplifying the Kremlin as either purely pragmatic or purely aggressive, failing to see the complex "aspirations, illusions, and fears" of the Soviet elite.
: Zubok places significant responsibility for the Soviet collapse on Mikhail Gorbachev , arguing that his personal choices and idealism—rather than just U.S. pressure—inadvertently destroyed the state. A Failed Empire: The Soviet Union in the Cold W...
: The book features an in-depth look at the "Soviet home front," detailing how societal stagnation and a loss of ideals among the elite contributed to the empire's failure. Where to Find the Book : He contends that Western historians often err