Choose a character from the documentary My Perestroika. Describe that person’s experience of the transition from communism to post-Soviet Russia. Briefly weigh the pluses and minuses they experienced. Some angles to consider include political attitudes, careers, lifestyles, and personal fulfilment. Characters: Lyubov/Lyuba married to Boris/Borya; Andrei (clothing retailer); Olga/Olya (blonde); Ruslan (musician). In what ways does this character’s experience illustrate a general aspect of the post-communist transition?
Based on your reading (Kenez is especially relevant here), assess the historical role of Boris Yeltsin and argue whether his contribution was, on balance, positive or negative for Russia. Make sure to discuss his actions and their consequences both before and after the collapse of the USSR, with some specific information and detail.
