Academician A.N. Yakovlev is a famous public and political figure, historian and diplomat. During the era of Perestroika (1985–1991), he became one of the leaders in the process of reforming the country on a democratic basis. His book is not just memories of his past, it is an in-depth study of the Soviet socio-political system and its evolution, an analysis of the criminal elements of the country’s governance by the leadership of the CPSU, leading to the political and economic collapse of the country. Reflections by A.N. Yakovlev are supported by documents that until recently were classified as classified. (proofreading required)