Ronald Reagan and the End of the Cold War

Flashcards reviewing the presidency of Ronald Reagan and his impact on domestic and foreign policy.

What factors made Americans ready for new leadership by 1980?

The disaster in Vietnam, hostage crisis in Iran, and new tensions with the USSR.

What was the 'New Right'?

A new conservative movement that rose to prominence in the 1980s.

What did the New Right promote?

School prayer and tough punishment for crimes; attacked abortion, the ERA, & homosexuality.

What was the platform that Reagan ran on in 1980?

Lower taxes, less government, & family values.

Which programs did Reagan cut as part of his effort to downsize the government?

Medicaid, welfare, and job training programs.

How did Reagan stimulate businesses through deregulation?

Reducing the power of government agencies.

Who was the first female justice appointed to the Supreme Court?

Sandra Day O’Conner.

What was the biggest crisis facing America when Reagan entered office?

Stagflation.

What economic theory did Reagan believe in?

Supply-side economics.

What tax cut did Reagan urge Congress to pass in 1981?

A 25% tax cut over 3 years.

Name some social problems that increased during Reagan's presidency.

School dropout rates, homelessness, attacks on affirmative action, & urban & minority poverty.

Why did the Reagan administration not move swiftly when AIDS cases were first documented?

The disease was among gay men.

What drug was first introduced in the 1980s that led to Reagan's 'War on Drugs'?

Crack cocaine.

Who did Reagan blame for allowing America’s international prestige & influence to fall?

Carter allowed it to fall.

What were Reagan's goals for U.S. foreign policy?

Increased military spending, confronted challenges in the Middle East & Latin America, and win the Cold War with the Soviet Union.

What was the deal that The U.S. government made with Iran in exchange for the release of 6 hostages?

Arms for hostages deal.

What scandal rocked the Reagan administration in 1987?

The Iran-Contra Affair.

What was Reagan's "Star Wars" program called?

Strategic Defense Initiative or SDI ('star wars' program).

What were Gorbachev's reforms to save Russia?

Perestroika: Introducing moderate capitalism & allowing some business & property ownership. Glasnost: Freedom of speech & competitive elections.

What treaty did Reagan & Gorbachev sign in 1987?

The INF Treaty.

What did Eastern European nations embrace in 1989 & 1990?

Democracy

What was the defining event of the Bush years (1990-1991)?

The Persian Gulf War.