Question

how did the soviet policy of glasnost change the scope of the cold war?

a. it closed diplomatic relationships between the soviets and the u.s.
b. it opened up diplomatic relationships between the soviets and the u.s.
c. it created an opportunity for the soviets to gain more territory.
d. it shut down the soviet economy due to the communist party losing control of russia.

Explanation:

Define the policy of Glasnost

Glasnost, introduced by Mikhail Gorbachev in the mid-1980s, translates to "openness." It was a policy designed to allow more freedom of speech, transparency in government institutions, and reduced censorship within the Soviet Union.

Analyze the impact on Cold War diplomacy

Using the Late Cold War Relations knowledge point

$$ \text{Glasnost} \implies \text{Increased transparency} \implies \text{Improved trust with the West} \implies \text{Opened diplomatic relations} $$

Evaluate the given options

• Option a: Incorrect. Glasnost fostered communication rather than closing diplomatic channels.
• Option b: Correct. By encouraging openness and reducing ideological rigidity, Glasnost helped pave the way for summits between Reagan and Gorbachev, opening up diplomatic relationships.
• Option c: Incorrect. Glasnost was an internal political reform, not an expansionist policy to gain territory.
• Option d: Incorrect. While the Soviet economy did struggle and the Communist Party eventually lost control, Glasnost itself was not a policy designed to shut down the economy.

Answer:

• a. It closed diplomatic relationships between the Soviets and the U.S.
• b. It opened up diplomatic relationships between the Soviets and the U.S. (Correct answer)
• c. It created an opportunity for the Soviets to gain more territory.
• d. It shut down the Soviet economy due to the Communist Party losing control of Russia.