George H.W. Bush Administration Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the George H.W. Bush administration and significant historical events during his presidency.

George H.W. Bush

The 41st President of the United States, serving from 1989 to 1993, who focused on foreign policy and faced economic challenges during his presidency.

1988 Presidential Election

Election in which George H.W. Bush defeated Democrat Michael Dukakis, marking the continuation of conservative policies from the Reagan administration.

Read my lips: no new taxes

A pledge made by George H.W. Bush during his campaign, promising not to raise taxes, which he later had to go back on; significant for its impact on his credibility.

Operation Desert Storm

The military operation led by the U.S. to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi occupation, marking a significant success in Bush's presidency.

End of the Cold War

A key focus of Bush's presidency, characterized by the collapse of the Soviet Union and the reduction of nuclear tensions.

Dukakis vs. Bush

The 1988 electoral showdown where George H.W. Bush ran against Democratic nominee Michael Dukakis, who was considered less experienced.

Dan Quayle

George H.W. Bush's Vice President known for his gaffes and perceived lack of intelligence.

Savings and Loan Scandal

Financial crisis during the 1980s that resulted in a significant federal bailout due to fraud and mismanagement in the banking sector.

Glasnost

A policy initiated by Gorbachev in the USSR that promoted openness and transparency in government, part of the reforms leading to the end of the Cold War.

Perestroika

A policy of economic restructuring in the Soviet Union aiming to transition from a command economy to a more market-oriented one.

Tiananmen Square Massacre

A violent crackdown by the Chinese government on pro-democracy demonstrators in 1989, a significant event during Bush's presidency.

Panama Invasion (Operation Just Cause)

The U.S. military operation that resulted in the capture of Manuel Noriega, who was indicted for drug trafficking.

Peace dividend

The expected reduction in military spending due to the end of the Cold War, which Bush aimed to achieve during his presidency.

Boris Yeltsin

The leader of Russia who rose to power during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, playing a key role in its transition to democracy.

Economic sanctions

Measures imposed by countries to restrict trade and financial transactions with Iraq, aimed at compelling Saddam Hussein to withdraw from Kuwait.

Popular vote in 1988

George H.W. Bush received 54% of the popular vote in the 1988 election, marking a significant win against Dukakis.

Commonwealth of Independent States

The political entity formed after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, with Russia as its largest member.