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Ronald Reagan: From Tax Cuts to Diplomacy

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Ronald Reagan, arguably the first true conservative U.S. President, served from 1981 to 1989. His presidency was marked by significant changes in tax policy, foreign diplomacy, and the Cold War.

Tax Cuts

Reagan's economic policy, known as "Reaganomics," emphasized tax cuts to stimulate economic growth. His administration enacted significant tax cuts in 1981 and 1986, reducing personal and corporate income taxes.

Foreign Diplomacy

Reagan's foreign policy was assertive and confrontational. He took a hard line against the Soviet Union, calling it an "evil empire." He also initiated the Strategic Defense Initiative, a controversial missile defense system.

Cold War

Reagan's Cold War policies contributed to the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. He increased defense spending, deployed new nuclear missiles in Europe, and supported anti-communist movements in Eastern Europe.