1980’s

Election of 1980

The election where Ronald Reagan won against Jimmy Carter.

Inauguration Day

The day to officially swear in the newly elected president of the United States.

Supply-side economics (Reaganomics)

The theory that reducing taxes on businesses and individuals will stimulate investment, increase production, and lead to economic growth.

Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI)

A proposed missile defense system aimed to protect the United States from nuclear missile attacks.

Glasnost

The policy of openness and transparency in government and media implemented by Mikhail Gorbachev in the Soviet Union.

Mikhail Gorbachev

The last leader of the Soviet Union, known for his reforms of glasnost and perestroika.

Perestroika

The restructuring of the Soviet political and economic system initiated by Mikhail Gorbachev.

Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty

A 1987 agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union to eliminate intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles.

Brandenburg Gate Speech

The speech delivered by Ronald Reagan calling on Gorbachev to 'tear down this wall,' referring to the Berlin Wall.

Iran-Contra Affair

A political scandal in the 1980s involving the secret sale of arms to Iran and the diversion of proceeds to support Contra rebels in Nicaragua.

Sandra Day O'Connor

The first woman appointed to the United States Supreme Court, appointed by Ronald Reagan.

Election of 1988

The election where George H.W. Bush won.

Operation Desert Storm

The combat phase of the Gulf War in 1991, aimed at liberating Kuwait from Iraqi occupation.

Fires of Kuwait

Saddam Hussein set oil fields in Kuwait on fire to rebel against invading coalition troops.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in various life areas such as employment and public access.