Ronald Reagan was the 40th President of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989. During his presidency, he implemented a number of policies and initiatives that had a significant impact on the country. Here are some of the key things that Ronald Reagan did as President:
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Reagan Revolution: Reagans innovative program aimed to reinvigorate the American people and reduce their reliance upon Government. He felt he had fulfilled his campaign pledge of 1980 to restore “the great, confident roar of American progress and growth and optimism” .
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Reaganomics: Reagan implemented economic deregulation and cuts in both taxes and government spending during a period of stagflation. He also signed into law the Tax Reform law of 1986.
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Foreign Policy: Reagan escalated an arms race and transitioned Cold War policy away from détente with the Soviet Union. He also ordered the invasion of Grenada in 1983 and held a summit meeting with Soviet premier Mikhail Gorbachev in Geneva, Switzerland.
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Domestic Affairs: Reagans domestic policies had a major impact on the American people and have had for many years. He followed up the passage of the largest tax cut in U.S. history by supporting and signing into law the Tax Reform law of 1986. He also signed, reluctantly, trade legislation designed to open foreign markets to U.S. goods. Reagans policies resulted in a major refocusing of the nations social, business, and international agenda.
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National Defense: Reagan obtained legislation to strengthen national defense.
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Social Issues: Reagan advanced domestic policies that featured a lessening of federal government responsibility in solving social problems, reducing restrictions on business, and implementing tax cuts.
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Re-election: Reagan won the Republican Presidential nomination in 1980 and was re-elected in 1984, defeating Democratic candidate Walter Mondale.
Overall, Ronald Reagans presidency was one of the most dynamic periods in recent U.S. history, resulting in a major refocusing of the nations social, business, and international agenda.
