Presidency of Ronald Reagan

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Overview of Ronald Reagan's presidency

The presidency of Ronald Reagan began on January 20, 1981, when he was inaugurated as the 40th president of the United States, and ended on January 20, 1989. Reagan, a Republican, took office following a landslide victory over the incumbent Democrat Jimmy Carter in the 1980 United States presidential election. His presidency is often credited with ushering in a new era of conservative politics in the United States.

Domestic Policy

Economic Policies

Reagan's economic policies, commonly referred to as "Reaganomics," were based on supply-side economics, which advocated for tax cuts, reduced social spending, deregulation, and free-market trade policies. The Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 was a significant piece of legislation that aimed to stimulate economic growth by reducing the marginal tax rates on income.

Social Policies

Reagan's administration took a conservative stance on social issues. He was a strong opponent of abortion and supported the pro-life movement. His administration also saw the beginning of the War on Drugs, which aimed to reduce illegal drug use and trafficking in the United States.

Judicial Appointments

Reagan appointed three justices to the Supreme Court: Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the Court, Antonin Scalia, and Anthony Kennedy. These appointments significantly influenced the judicial landscape of the United States.

Foreign Policy

Reagan's foreign policy was marked by a strong anti-communist stance. He is often credited with playing a key role in ending the Cold War.

Cold War and the Soviet Union

Reagan's approach to the Soviet Union was initially confrontational, exemplified by his famous "Evil Empire" speech. However, his relationship with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev led to significant arms reduction agreements, including the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF Treaty) in 1987.

Middle East

Reagan's administration was involved in several significant events in the Middle East, including the Lebanon War and the Iran-Contra affair, a political scandal involving the secret sale of arms to Iran and the diversion of the proceeds to support Contra rebels in Nicaragua.

Legacy

Reagan's presidency is often credited with revitalizing the American economy and restoring national confidence. However, his policies also led to increased national debt and income inequality. His administration's handling of the AIDS epidemic has been a subject of significant criticism.

Related Pages

• Ronald Reagan
• Reaganomics
• Cold War
• Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981
• Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty
• Iran-Contra affair
• Sandra Day O'Connor
• Antonin Scalia
• Anthony Kennedy

References

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