WORLD HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -There is one sign the Soviets can make that would be unmistakable, that would advance dramatically the cause of freedom and peace. General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization: Come here to this gate!

Detailed explanation-2: -Ronald Reagan and Gorbachev, capitalist and communist, were an unlikely pairing but their series of high profile summits have been praised for helping to end the cold war. Together they negotiated a landmark deal in 1987 to scrap intermediate-range nuclear missiles.

Detailed explanation-3: -Reagan’s stark challenge to tear down the Berlin Wall gave shape to increasing international pressure on Moscow to make good on its promises of openness and reform. The wall, which had become a symbol of Soviet oppression, came down two years later, on November 9, 1989.

Detailed explanation-4: -On June 12, 1987, President Ronald Reagan gave this historic speech at Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate in which he implored Soviet General Secretary Gorbachev: “Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall."

Detailed explanation-5: -On 13 June 1990, the East German Border Troops officially began dismantling the Wall, beginning in Bernauer Straße and around the Mitte district. From there, demolition continued through Prenzlauer Berg/Gesundbrunnen, Heiligensee and throughout the city of Berlin until December 1990.