Boris Yeltsin emerged as a national hero in opposing the coup that occurred in the Soviet Union in 1991.

Background:

• In August 1991, a group of hardline communists attempted a coup to overthrow Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev.

• The coup failed, but it left the country in a state of political turmoil.

• Boris Yeltsin, the president of the Russian Federation, played a crucial role in opposing the coup and restoring democracy to the country.

Role of Boris Yeltsin:

• Yeltsin was quick to denounce the coup and call for resistance against it.

• He rallied support from the public and called for a general strike to protest against the coup.

• Yeltsin also led a group of politicians and activists to the Russian White House, the seat of the Russian parliament, where they set up a makeshift government to oppose the coup.

• Despite facing opposition from the military and security forces, Yeltsin's supporters held their ground and refused to back down.

• Yeltsin's courageous actions helped to galvanize the opposition and ultimately led to the downfall of the coup.

• After the coup failed, Yeltsin emerged as a national hero and a champion of democracy in the Soviet Union.

Conclusion:

• Boris Yeltsin's role in opposing the coup was a defining moment in Russian history.

• His leadership and courage helped to restore democracy to the country and paved the way for the eventual dissolution of the Soviet Union.

• Yeltsin's legacy as a national hero and champion of democracy continues to be celebrated in Russia today.