George Bush Snr.'s Policies and the Communist World

The policies of George Bush Snr towards the communist world were highly significant in bringing about the end of the Cold War. While Ronald Reagan had put pressure on the USSR, it was under Bush's presidency that major developments occurred in the transition from Communism. These developments included the fall of the Berlin Wall, the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact, and the reunification of Germany, which came into the western orbit in NATO. Importantly, these changes were achieved without a nationalist reaction in the USSR and were brought about peacefully.

One of the key reasons for the success of Bush's policies was his moderation and avoidance of triumphalism. He was praised for his measured approach and his ability to meet a major US foreign policy objective without exacerbating tensions. However, there has been some criticism that the US did not do enough to support the new regime in the former USSR or to address the consequences of the breakup of European communism.

Bush faced a challenging situation with both the changing USSR and China, which used violence to suppress change. When the Tiananmen Square protests led to demands in the US for sanctions, Bush prioritized maintaining improved relations with China. He imposed limited sanctions and later sent a mission to Beijing, resulting in improved economic relations.

Similarly, Bush sought improved relations with the USSR. After a period of caution, known as the "pauza," this goal was achieved. Bush did not celebrate the destruction of the Berlin Wall, fearing a reaction from hardliners. He faced criticism from Reaganites and Cold Warriors in his own party, who wanted a more aggressive approach. However, Bush's discussions with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in 1989 led to an arms reduction treaty and the signing of the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) in 1991.

Bush's careful reactions to the problems that arose when republics broke away from the USSR also contributed to good relations. He did not push for faster change or throw his weight behind Boris Yeltsin, instead allowing the change of direction away from confrontation to solidify.

In conclusion, the policies of George Bush Snr towards the communist world were highly significant in bringing about the end of the Cold War. His moderation, avoidance of triumphalism, and careful approach to both China and the USSR played a crucial role in achieving major developments such as the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany. While there has been some criticism of his handling of the aftermath of the Cold War, Bush's policies were instrumental in shaping the new world order.