While there are unique features of the Soviet collapse,  there may be more general lessons to be drawn from this very important case. There is no doubt that the internal weaknesses of Soviet political and economic institutions, which failed to meet the aspirations of the people, were responsible for the collapse of the system. Economic stagnation for many years led to severe consumer shortages and a large section of Soviet society began to doubt and question the system and to do so openly.

What reforms were promised by Gorbachev?

All of the above.

Gorbachev’s reforms promised to deal with the problems of the Soviet Union. Gorbachev promised to reform the economy, catch up with the West, and loosen the administrative system.