Questions about Leonid Brezhnev

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When was Leonid Brezhnev born and where did he grow up?

Leonid Ilyich Brezhnev was born on the 19th of December 1906 in Kamenskoye, Ukraine. His family lived within the Yekaterinoslav Governorate of the Russian Empire before the October Revolution created the Soviet Union.

How long did Leonid Brezhnev lead the Soviet Union as First Secretary?

Leonid Brezhnev took part in the removal of Nikita Khrushchev as leader of the Soviet Union in October 1964. He remained in power until his death on the 10th of November 1982.

What economic conditions characterized the Era of Stagnation under Leonid Brezhnev?

Economic growth began to slow down after 1973 due to the prioritization of heavy industry and military spending over consumer goods. Annual GNP growth fell to between 1% and 2% per year while the Soviet Union outproduced the United States in heavy industry but lacked innovation needed to meet public demand.

Which major international conflicts involved Leonid Brezhnev's regime during the Cold War?

Brezhnev ordered the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia in August 1968 following the Prague Spring. The Politburo also took the decision to invade Afghanistan unanimously in December 1979.

Why was Leonid Brezhnev known for receiving numerous awards and medals?

The last years of Brezhnev's rule were marked by a growing personality cult centered on his love of medals. He received over 100 awards during his lifetime including three additional Hero of the Soviet Union awards and the rare Order of Victory in 1978.

When did Leonid Brezhnev die and who succeeded him as General Secretary?

Leonid Brezhnev died on the 10th of November 1982 after suffering a heart attack three days after his final public appearance. He was succeeded as General Secretary by Yuri Andropov.