Pronunciation: [bˈɒɹɪs jˈɛltsɪn] (IPA) 
Boris Yeltsin, the first president of Russia, is a name that is often misspelled. The correct spelling is /ˈbɔːrɪs ˈjɛltsɪn/. The first name is pronounced with a long "o" sound as in "bore", followed by a short "i" sound as in "bit", and then ending with a soft "s" sound. Yeltsin's last name is pronounced with a stress on the first syllable, and an "eh" sound as in "bet" followed by a "l" sound and a soft "ts" sound.
Boris Yeltsin was a prominent Russian politician who served as the first President of the Russian Federation from 1991 to 1999. Born on February 1, 1931, in Butka, Russia, Yeltsin played a significant role in the transformation of Russia during the tumultuous period of the late 20th century.
Yeltsin began his political career in the Soviet Union's Communist Party, serving in various regional and national positions. Renowned for his outspokenness and charismatic personality, he emerged as a prominent leader during the era of perestroika under Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Yeltsin gained recognition for challenging the constraints of the Communist Party and advocating for political and economic reforms.
He became a symbol of resistance against the hardline communist forces during the failed coup attempt in August 1991. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Yeltsin became the President of the Russian Federation, leading the country through a period of profound political and economic transition.
Yeltsin championed liberal reforms and played a crucial role in the privatization of state-owned industries, transitioning Russia into a market economy. However, his presidency also faced several challenges, including economic crises, political controversies, and territorial conflicts, such as the Chechen War.
Often seen as a polarizing figure, Yeltsin's presidency left a lasting impact on Russia's political landscape. Despite his flawed policies and controversies, he played a pivotal role in shaping Russia's transition from communism to a more market-oriented society, leaving a mixed legacy as a significant figure in Russian history.
