This week, communist rule fractures beyond all recognition. Poland embraces democracy. Nationalist unrest rapidly spirals across the Baltics. And just two years later, Mikhail Gorbachev resigns, ending over seven decades of Soviet power. Historic breakthroughs emerge elsewhere with the Oslo Accords and the miraculous discovery of trapped Chilean miners. Closer to home, Tony Blair’s top spin doctor Alastair Campbell steps down, and British sport celebrates a breathtaking Paralympic opening ceremony and a legendary Ashes victory.
