Mikhail Gorbachev dies at age 91: See the former Soviet leader's political career in photos

Mikhail Gorbachev, the final leader of the Soviet Union, died at the age of 91 of "a long and grave illness," Russian news agencies reported Tuesday.

Gorbachev was one of the major political figures of the late 20th century, leading the Soviet Union from 1985 until its dissolution in 1991, as he attempted to introduce more open economic and political policies in the communist state, eventually resulting in the end of the Cold War. 

He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1990 for his efforts at arms control, and after his time as the leader of the Soviet Union, he focused on his Gorbachev Foundation, which "conducts research into social, economic and political problems of critical importance at the current stage in Russian and world history."

Mikhail Gorbachev dead at 91: Former Soviet leader paved way for end of Cold War

Counteroffensive: Ukraine stays on offensive as Zelenskyy warns Russians to 'go home' in push to retake Kherson

Remembering those we lost: Celebrity deaths 2022

Camille Fine is a trending visual producer on Paste BN's NOW team. 

Contributing: William Welch, Paste BN