In August 1991, a coup attempt was launched in the Soviet Union against President Mikhail Gorbachev, who had initiated significant reforms to reduce the central authority of the Communist Party and open the economy. The coup was orchestrated by hardline members of the Soviet government who opposed Gorbachev's reforms and sought to reinstate a more authoritarian regime. On August 20, amidst this turmoil, citizens spontaneously gathered outside the Supreme Soviet building in Moscow, demonstrating their support for Gorbachev and a commitment to democratic principles. Reports noted the presence of over 100,000 protesters who rallied despite the risks associated with confronting armed coup leaders.

The demonstrators, led by figures such as Boris Yeltsin, climbed onto tanks and boldly declared their loyalty to Gorbachev, signifying a potential turning point in the struggle for reform within the Soviet Union. The protests represented a significant grassroots effort to counteract the coup, drawing public attention to the growing discontent with the hardliners' actions. The initial response of the military and security services was muted, which emboldened more citizens to join the struggle against the takeover.

As the protests escalated, the coup, which had begun with the arrest of Gorbachev, began to falter. Citizens of Moscow and other parts of the country took to the streets, effectively undermining the coup leaders' authority. By standing firm against the coup, the protesters played a crucial role in restoring Gorbachev's position, albeit temporarily, while highlighting the shifting dynamics power towards reform and the demand for increased political freedoms in the Soviet Union.