Ronald Reagan: From Hollywood to the White House
Born on February 6, 1911, in Tampico, Illinois, Ronald Reagan was the second son of John Edward and Nelle Wilson Reagan. He graduated from Eureka College in 1932 and began a career in radio broadcasting. His charismatic voice soon caught Hollywood's attention, and he appeared in over 50 films before transitioning to politics. In 1966, he was elected Governor of California. His conservative fiscal policies and strong stance against communism resonated with many Californians. After serving two terms, Reagan set his sights on the White House. In 1980, Reagan became the 40th President of the United States. His presidency was defined by a commitment to an economic philosophy known as 'Reaganomics,' which emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, and reduced government spending. His tenure saw significant economic growth, but also a rise in income inequality and national debt. Internationally, Reagan is remembered for his role in ending the Cold War. His famous 'Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!' speech in Berlin in 1987 embodied his firm stance against communism. After leaving office in 1989, Reagan revealed in 1994 he was suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Despite his struggle, the Reagan legacy continues to shape American politics, particularly within the Republican Party. His charismatic persona, optimistic rhetoric, and unshakeable belief in American exceptionalism have helped to frame him as a significant figure in the 20th-century American history.
Question 1
What was Ronald Reagan's first profession before politics?
Teacher
Lawyer
Doctor
Radio broadcaster
Accountant
Question 2
What was the economic philosophy that defined Reagan's presidency?
Keynesian economics
Neo-liberalism
Reaganomics
Supply-side economics
Monetarism
Question 3
What was the primary international issue Reagan is remembered for addressing?
World War II
The Vietnam War
The Korean War
The Gulf War
The Cold War
Question 4
What disease did Reagan reveal he was suffering from in 1994?
Parkinson's disease
Alzheimer's disease
Cancer
Heart disease
Diabetes
Question 5
What political party does Reagan's legacy continue to shape?
Democratic Party
Republican Party
Libertarian Party
Green Party
Independent
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