Why gorbachev returned to moscow as a hero?

Mikhail Gorbachev returned to Moscow as a hero in 1991 after the failed coup attempt against him, which aimed to reverse his reforms and restore hardline communist control. His resilience during the coup, combined with his commitment to democratic reforms and openness (glasnost and perestroika), garnered him significant popular support. Many viewed him as a symbol of progress and change, having played a key role in reducing Cold War tensions and ultimately allowing for greater freedoms in the Soviet Union. His return marked a moment of triumph for those advocating for reform and democracy.