AP US History Unit 9 Cheatsheet: Globalization and Contemporary America, 1980-Present

Core Conservative Goals (1980s onward)

• Tax cuts to stimulate economic growth
• Deregulation of industries
• Reduced federal government size and scope
• Traditional social values in public policy

Key Tension
Conservatives argued liberal programs failed to reduce poverty and boost growth. However, many programs remained popular with voters, limiting rollback efforts.

Ongoing Policy Debates

• Free-trade agreements
• Social safety net scope
• Financial system reform
• Immigration policy
• Gender roles and family structures

Reagan's Anti-Communist Strategy

• Speeches and diplomatic initiatives asserting U.S. opposition
• Limited military interventions
• Nuclear and conventional weapons buildup

Factors in Cold War's End

• Increased U.S. military spending
• Reagan's diplomatic efforts
• Political changes in Eastern Europe
• Economic problems in Soviet Union

Post–Cold War Shift
New diplomatic relationships emerged, but U.S. pursued military interventions and peacekeeping operations. Debates intensified over appropriate use of American power.