5. Gorbachev (1985 - 1991)
Gorbachev's rule was to be key in bringing about the end of Communism in the Soviet Union and, indeed, in all of the central and eastern satellite states. His decision to reform the Soviet Union politically and economically, and also to negotiate arms agreements with the US, was to lead to turmoil in the USSR and its collapse in 1990. His actions would also lead to the end of the Cold War. Note that this theme...