Using the primary sources in this module, answer ONE of the following prompts:

1. To what extent did divergent nationalities play a role in the break-up of the Soviet Union? Use three different republics to illustrate your answer.

2. Some scholars argue that, like any other multi-national empire throughout history, the Soviet state was "doomed" to fail as a coherent entity, given the vast number of competing nationalities and nationalisms. Do you agree or disagree? Defend your answer. Identify the elements that worked in support of the continuation of the Soviet State and those that worked against it. Include whatever other historical examples you feel are relevant.