Khrushchev, Nikita

Nikita Khrushchev was a Soviet leader who led the USSR from 1953 to 1964. Known for his de-Stalinization efforts, he aimed to reduce the repressive, authoritarian aspects of Stalin's rule. Khrushchev is remembered for initiating the space race, notably launching the first human-made satellite, Sputnik, and for his confrontational stance during the Cuban Missile Crisis, which brought the world close to nuclear war. His leadership involved efforts to modernize the Soviet economy and improve living standards but also featured political turmoil and moments of brinkmanship with the United States.