The Fall of the USSR, Pt II
Summary
In this episode, hosts Chuck and Josh conclude their two-part series on the fall of the Soviet Union, focusing on the chaotic aftermath in Russia. They discuss Boris Yeltsin’s rise, the disastrous economic "shock therapy" that created the oligarch class, and the resulting social crisis. The episode explains how this instability paved the way for Vladimir Putin’s ascent to power and his restoration of Russian strength.
Topics discussed
Intro and Capital One sponsorship
Welcome and the failed coup against Gorbachev
Yeltsin's rise and dissolution of the USSR
Identity crisis and the rise of Vladimir Putin
Western response and ad breaks
Shock therapy and the voucher privatization scheme
Rise of oligarchs and social collapse
Yeltsin's unpopularity and 1996 election
YouTube Premium and USPS ads
The Nuremberg trial and lingering nostalgia
Putin's consolidation of power
Listener mail on Cornwall and outro
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