The major consequence of the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 was the end of the Cold War and a significant shift in global political dynamics. It led to the emergence of independent nations from former Soviet republics, notably in Eastern Europe, and the spread of democracy and capitalism. This transition also resulted in geopolitical reconfiguration, with NATO expanding eastward and the United States solidifying its status as the sole global superpower. The collapse highlighted the ideological failure of communism and triggered significant changes in international relations.