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Reagan Administration

Definition

The presidency of Ronald Reagan from 1981 to 1989. This period was marked by conservative policies domestically, including tax cuts and deregulation, and a hardline stance against the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Analogy

Think of the Reagan Administration as a coach who believes in tough training (conservative policies) to win the big game (Cold War). They believe that less interference from others (deregulation) will allow their team to perform at its best.

Related terms

Cold War: A period of geopolitical tension between the United States and Soviet Union following World War II. It was characterized by political and economic clashes but no direct warfare.

Star Wars Program (Strategic Defense Initiative): A proposed missile defense system intended to protect the United States from attack by ballistic strategic nuclear weapons. This program was initiated under Reagan's administration.

Iran-Contra Affair: A political scandal during Reagan's second term involving secret arms sales to Iran in an attempt to secure the release of U.S hostages; funds from these sales were used illegally to support Contras in Nicaragua.