The Sowjetunion, or Soviet Union, was a socialist state that existed from 1922 to 1991. It was made up of multiple republics, with Russland being the largest and most influential. The government was based on the principles of Marxism-Leninism, and it aimed to create a classless society through state control of the economy and resources. The Soviet Union played a significant role in global events, particularly during the Kalter Krieg (Cold War) against the Vereinigte Staaten. It was known for its space achievements, including launching the first human, Juri Alexejewitsch Gagarin, into space in 1961. The union dissolved in 1991, leading to the independence of its republics.