Leonid Ilyich Brezhnev

He embodied Soviet “stability,” which gradually turned into stagnation. As leader of the USSR, he strengthened the arms buildup, expanded the country's influence abroad, and became a symbol of cumbersome bureaucracy. His era offered many people security and order, while also deepening the state's backwardness. He is also remembered for his fondness for decorations and his demonstrative public kisses.