Understanding Gorbachev's Rise and Soviet Reforms

This question asks about the specific year Mikhail Gorbachev became the leader of the USSR and initiated significant reform processes. To answer this correctly, we need to recall the timeline of his political career and the beginning of his famous reforms.

Mikhail Gorbachev's Leadership and Reform Era

Mikhail Gorbachev rose through the ranks of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. His ascent to the top leadership position marked a turning point in Soviet history. He recognized the need for significant changes to revitalize the struggling Soviet system.

He became the General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, the most powerful position in the country at the time, in the year 1985. Shortly after assuming leadership, he began introducing his key reform policies:

• Perestroika (Restructuring): Aimed at reforming the economic and political system of the Soviet Union.
• Glasnost (Openness): Advocated for increased transparency in government activities and greater freedom of information.

While the position of 'President of the USSR' was formally created and Gorbachev was elected to it later (in 1990), the reform process widely associated with his era began immediately after he became the top leader in 1985.

Looking at the options:

• 1985: This is the year Gorbachev became General Secretary and started initiating his reforms.
• 1987: Reforms were ongoing, but this wasn't the start year.
• 1989: Reforms were ongoing, significant events like the fall of the Berlin Wall occurred, but not the start year of his leadership or reforms.
• 1991: This year saw a coup attempt against Gorbachev and the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.

Therefore, 1985 is the year when Gorbachev took power and began the process of reform in the USSR, aligning with the intent of the question.

The final answer is 1985.

Revision Table: Key Dates in Gorbachev's Era

Additional Information: Perestroika and Glasnost Reforms

The reforms under Gorbachev, Perestroika and Glasnost, were fundamental attempts to address the stagnation of the Soviet system. Perestroika focused on decentralizing economic decision-making and allowing some private enterprise, while Glasnost aimed to reduce censorship and increase political discussion and dissent. These policies, while intended to revitalize the Soviet Union, also contributed to unintended consequences, including increased nationalistic sentiments in the republics and challenges to the Communist Party's authority, ultimately playing a role in the dissolution of the USSR.