Ep 17. Reagan, Part 4

Ronald Reagan was one of the greatest communicators in American history. He used his acting skills to become a master of political stagecraft. As governor of California, he honed his political skills and developed his conservative ideology. In 1980, he was elected President of the United States, ushering in a new era of conservative politics.

In episode 4 of American Experience: The Presidents, we follow Ronald Reagan through the tumultuous years of his second term. We see him confront the challenges of the Cold War and navigate the tricky politics of the Iran-Contra scandal. We see him reassert American power on the world stage and push through major changes at home.

Reagan's vision for America was shaped by his conservative beliefs. He believed in small government, low taxes, and a strong military. He wanted to roll back the welfare state and empower market forces. He believed that government was the problem, not the solution.

Reagan's leadership was tested in his second term. He faced a resurgent Soviet Union under Mikhail Gorbachev, who sought to reform the Soviet system while at the same time maintaining its grip on Eastern Europe. Reagan pursued a strategy of confrontation and pressure, calling the Soviet Union an "evil empire." But he also pursued a policy of engagement, meeting with Gorbachev several times and negotiating arms control agreements.

The Iran-Contra scandal was a major setback for Reagan. The scandal involved the sale of arms to Iran, which was under an arms embargo, in exchange for the release of American hostages in Lebanon. The proceeds from the arms sales were then used to fund the Contras, a group of anti-communist rebels in Nicaragua. The scandal tarnished Reagan's reputation and raised questions about his judgement.

But Reagan remained popular with the American people, who admired his strength and optimism. He also remained committed to his conservative agenda. He pushed through major tax reform in 1986, which lowered rates for individuals and corporations while eliminating many loopholes and deductions. He also continued to advocate for a strong military, arguing that peace through strength was the best way to deter aggression.

Reagan faced some of the toughest challenges of any President in American history, and he emerged from them with his popularity intact. He left office in 1989 with the American economy booming, the Soviet Union in decline, and the conservative movement ascendant. His legacy as a conservative icon and master communicator endures to this day.

American Experience: The Presidents is a comprehensive look at the men who have occupied the Oval Office. It tells the stories of their lives, their times, and their accomplishments. This series is an essential resource for anyone who wants to understand American history and the nature of leadership. Episode 4, Reagan, Part 4, is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the challenges and triumphs of one of America's most important and influential Presidents.