... remain in the middle and proposed the two groups mesh their ideas and work up a comparable solution. "This was akin to trying to mix fire and water or chalk and cheese. It could not be done. In the meanwhile the economy continued on its downward spiral- (McCauley 348). At first Gorbachev seemed receptive to the 500-day proposal but in October ... of 1990 he retreated from his backing of the programme. This was detrimental to Gorbachev. According to McCauley, "I am convinced that the rejection of the 500-day programme served as an encouraging signal to them. It was a mistake with momento...

• Word Count: 1397
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School