THE ELECTION OF 1980 AND THE REAGAN ERA

Political distrust

A significant issue in the 1970s highlighted by the Watergate Scandal.

Fall of Saigon

A foreign policy failure of the U.S. that contributed to political distrust during the 1970s.

Stagflation

The economic crisis of the 1970s characterized by high inflation and unemployment.

Iran Hostage Crisis

A major event in U.S. history during the late 1970s that contributed to national anxiety.

Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (1979)

A key Cold War event that heightened tensions during the 1970s.

Malaise speech

A speech by Jimmy Carter that reflected national pessimism.

Election of 1980

Ronald Reagan won against Jimmy Carter in a landslide with 489 electoral votes.

Religious Right

A coalition that supported Ronald Reagan, including groups like Jerry Falwell and the Moral Majority.

Backlash against liberalism

The reaction against liberalism and feminism that helped propel Reagan to victory.

Reaganomics

The supply-side economic policies implemented by Ronald Reagan.

Economic Recovery Tax Act (1981)

Legislation that included a 25% income tax cut and reduced top tax rates.

Trickle-down economics

The theory that lower taxes would lead to more investment and economic growth.

PATCO strike (1981)

A significant labor event where Reagan fired around 12,000 workers, weakening unions.

Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI)

An initiative proposed by Reagan to create an anti-missile system, costing approximately $100 billion.

Reagan Doctrine

A foreign policy that supported anti-communist movements around the world.

Iran-Contra Affair (1986)

An illegal operation where weapons were sold to Iran and funds were used to support Nicaraguan Contras.

Mikhail Gorbachev

The Soviet leader known for Glasnost and Perestroika during the end of the Cold War.

INF Treaty (1987)

An agreement that resulted in the removal of approximately 2,500 missiles.

Fall of the Berlin Wall

An event in 1989 marking a significant moment in the end of the Cold War.

Economic recovery (mid-1980s)

One positive impact of Reagan's presidency, associated with growth.

Increased inequality

One negative outcome of Reagan's policies, showcasing the disparity that grew during his presidency.

Conservative shift

The significant change in U.S. politics initiated by Reagan's presidency, emphasizing free markets and limited government.