President Report: Ronald Reagan, How did this president address/attack the social, political, economic, religious, and moral issues of the time?

Essay by wavebbyHigh School, 11th gradeA+, December 2004

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Beginning with our founding fathers, freedom has been an idea that has forever infiltrated Americans' hearts and souls. Ronald Reagan was a president that dedicated his words and actions of his two term presidency to the protection of peoples' freedoms. During his time of leadership, he restored the American dream that had slowly begun to dissolve, with his appealing unending optimism. As former President Bill Clinton stated, "He personified the indomitable optimism of the American people." He addressed issues with a firm opinion and solid plan, and was unwavering in his convictions. He spoke to the public honestly and openly about what he intended to accomplish, and by never giving up the fight for these issues, he was greatly trusted. Although everyone didn't always agree with all of his plans, they did support him on the majority of the issues. He faced many challenging issues during his presidency, but tackled these problems with a "can-do" attitude, and with this positive approach, he was able to rally the American public behind him and accomplish his goals.

The social issues during his presidency were very important to Reagan. He knew that these issues were what would make or break his popularity and effectiveness. He devoted a great deal of time to making sure the American people were motivated and that they felt secure. He said, "Whatever else history may say about me when I'm gone, I hope it will record that I appealed to your best hopes, not your worst fears; to your confidence rather than your doubts. My dream is that you will travel the road ahead with liberty's lamp guiding your steps and opportunity's arm steadying your way" (Presidential).

When Ronald Reagan was elected in 1980, defeating one term president Jimmy Carter by a landslide, the country was just emerging...