Konstantin Chernenko vs Nobusuke Kishi

Chernenko launched minor economic reforms, including experiments in industrial management and anti-corruption campaigns. However, his poor health and conservative stance limited the scope and impact of these measures, which were overshadowed by later Gorbachev reforms.

Chernenko succeeded Yuri Andropov as General Secretary, becoming the leader of the Soviet Union. His election came after a prolonged illness of Andropov and marked a continuation of conservative policies.

Chernenko's government led a Soviet boycott of the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, citing security concerns and anti-Soviet sentiment in the US. The boycott was a retaliation for the US-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics.

Chernenko died after only 13 months as General Secretary, due to emphysema and heart failure. His brief tenure was marked by stagnation and declining health, and he was succeeded by Mikhail Gorbachev, who initiated sweeping reforms.

As prime minister, Kishi pursued policies to stimulate economic growth, including tax cuts, increased public works, and support for heavy industry. He also worked to normalize Japan's international standing, securing membership in the United Nations in 1956 and promoting trade with Southeast Asia.

As prime minister, Nobusuke Kishi pushed through the revised US-Japan Security Treaty in January 1960, which strengthened the bilateral alliance and allowed US forces to remain in Japan. The treaty's ratification sparked massive protests and a political crisis, leading to Kishi's resignation shortly after its passage.

Kishi's government used police force to suppress the massive demonstrations against the Security Treaty, including the controversial decision to call in riot police to clear the Diet building. The crackdown deepened public anger and damaged Kishi's reputation, contributing to his decision to step down.