The 1970s was the period of stagflation, rising unemployment coupled with inflation. This combination forced economists to consider the supply side of the economy. In the 1980s, inflation whipped and the macro economy grew. The Cold War ended in 1989 as the Soviets were unable to keep up with American technology and military built up. Soviet leader Gorbachev tried to save the Soviet form of socialism, but refused to use force. He earned the Nobel Peace Prize.