A significant effect of the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 was the emergence of multiple independent nations from its former republics, notably Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic States. This collapse marked the end of the Cold War and led to a shift in global power dynamics, favoring Western ideologies. Economically, many of the newly independent states faced challenges transitioning from central planning to market economies, resulting in widespread hardship and political instability. Additionally, the fall inspired countries within Eastern Europe to pursue democratic reforms and join organizations like NATO and the European Union.