How did Mikhail Gorbachev rule his people?

Mikhail Gorbachev ruled the Soviet Union through a combination of reform and openness, implementing policies like glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring) to address economic stagnation and promote political transparency. His leadership marked a shift from strict authoritarianism to a more democratic approach, allowing greater freedom of expression and reducing censorship. However, these reforms also led to significant political and economic instability, ultimately contributing to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. Gorbachev's legacy is complex, as he is both praised for his progressive vision and criticized for the turmoil that followed his initiatives.