Soviet Politics from Brezhnev to Gorbachev

Beginning with Brezhnev era the author follows the course and development of Soviet leadership--examining the elements of continuity as well as change. He zeroes in on each individual leader and analyzes the economic social and international issues faced by each. For instance Kelly sets the stage for Andropovs succession discusses strategies for his succession details Andropovs rise to power presents the premiers time in power and finally examines Andropovs decline. Along with pinpointing individual instances of leadership the author covers the role of the Communist party within Soviet politics including the theory of party leadership and the reality of bureaucratic and administrative reform. He also discusses options for the new leadership Soviet economy class and social structure and foreign policy.