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Ronald Reagan (1911–2004) was the 40th President of the United States, serving from 1981 to 1989. He is remembered for his conservative policies, charismatic leadership, and significant impact on American politics during the late 20th century. Early Life Ronald Wilson Reagan was born on February 6, 1911, in Tampico, Illinois, to a working-class family. His father, Jack Reagan, was a salesman, and his mother, Nelle, was a homemaker. Reagan attended Eureka College, where he studied economics and sociology and developed an interest in acting. Early Career Before entering politics, Reagan pursued a career in Hollywood, becoming a successful actor in the 1930s and 1940s. He appeared in over 50 films, including "Knute Rockne, All American" (1940) and "Kings Row" (1942). During World War II, he served in the Army Air Forces, primarily working in film production. In the late 1940s, Reagan transitioned from acting to politics, becoming involved with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and later serving as its president. His political views shifted towards conservatism, and in 1966, he was elected as the Governor of California, a position he held until 1975. Presidency Reagan won the presidency in 1980, defeating incumbent Jimmy Carter. His presidency is often associated with several key themes and policies: Economic Policies: Reagan implemented supply-side economic policies, often referred to as "Reaganomics," which emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and reducing government spending. Supporters argue these policies spurred economic growth, while critics claim they disproportionately favored the wealthy. Cold War and Foreign Policy: Reagan took a strong stance against the Soviet Union, famously labeling it the "Evil Empire." He increased military spending and initiated programs like the Strategic Defense Initiative. His administration played a crucial role in the eventual end of the Cold War, fostering diplomatic relations with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Social Issues: Reagan's presidency faced challenges related to social issues, including the AIDS epidemic and civil rights. His administration was criticized for its response to the AIDS crisis, particularly in its early years. Judicial Appointments: Reagan appointed three justices to the Supreme Court, including Sandra Day O'Connor, the first female justice, and Antonin Scalia. His appointments influenced the court's direction on several key issues, including abortion and affirmative action. Legacy Reagan left office in 1989 with high approval ratings. He is often credited with revitalizing the conservative movement in the U.S. and reshaping the Republican Party. However, his legacy is complex, with debates surrounding the effects of his policies on social inequality and government size. After his presidency, Reagan became an influential figure in conservative circles, writing his memoirs and engaging in public speaking. In 1994, he announced that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, which he battled until his death on June 5, 2004.
