THE END OF BIPOLARITY – INTRODUCTION Bipolarity refers to a system of international relations in which two superpowers dominate world politics . After the Second World War, the world was divided into two opposing power blocs led by the United States (USA) and the Soviet Union (USSR) . This period, known as the Cold War , was marked by ideological rivalry, military alliances, and global power competition. The disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991 brought this rivalry to an end and marked the end of bipolarity , leading to a major transformation in the global political order. Collapse of the Soviet Union The collapse of the Soviet Union refers to the disintegration of the USSR in 1991 , when it broke into 15 independent republics . This event ended the Cold War , brought about the end of bipolarity , and led to major changes in world politics. Political Causes The Soviet political system was highly centralised , giving little power to the people. Lack of d...