Soviet dissidents were individuals in the Soviet Union who opposed the government's policies and actions, particularly regarding human rights and political freedoms. They often faced persecution, imprisonment, or exile for their beliefs. Many dissidents sought to promote democratic reforms and greater personal liberties, challenging the authoritarian regime. Notable figures among the dissidents included Andrei Sakharov, a physicist and human rights activist, and Alexander Solzhenitsyn, an author who exposed the realities of the Gulag system. These individuals and others played a crucial role in raising awareness about the oppressive nature of the Soviet government and inspired movements for change.