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Reagan's 1980s: Politics, Economics, and Cultural Shifts

In the 1980s, under President Ronald Reagan, America experienced significant political and economic transformations. Elected as the oldest president at 69, Reagan, known as "The Great Communicator," promoted Reaganomics, which advocated for tax cuts and reduced government spending, benefiting the wealthy more than the poorest. The decade saw a rise in Yuppie culture, crime concerns, and social activism on various fronts, including AIDS and environmental issues. This period was marked by conservative judicial appointments, the tripling of national debt, and a growing reliance on technology and media.

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Reagan's 1980s: Politics, Economics, and Cultural Shifts

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  1. The 80’s

  2. Reagan • Elected at 69, the oldest man to serve as president • Was distrustful of the federal government

  3. “The Great Communicator” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpwdcmjBgNA - Bear in the Woods

  4. Reaganomics • Tax cuts will stimulate the economy • Expanding economy = more tax revenue • Reduce government spending • Cut food stamps, welfare and unemployment • Supposed to redistribute wealth • Wealthiest average income grew 75% • Poorest grew only 7%

  5. Reaganomics • Federal regulations impeded economic growth • Abolish or reduce federal regulation of the workplace, healthcare, environment • So long, New Deal and Great Society!! • One result: Deinstitutionalizing the mentally ill

  6. Where did the money go? $1.2 trillion defense buildup

  7. 1986 - Scandal • “Arms for Hostages” deal with Iran to release hostages held in Lebanon by pro-Iranian forces • Profits were used to fund the Contras

  8. Reagan Legacy • Conservative judicial appointments • O’Connor, Scalia and Kennedy • National Debt • TRIPLED in his two terms

  9. Decade of Indulgence • Yuppies • Young Urban Professionals • Moneymakers concerned with material things

  10. Technology and the Media • Cable television! • Specialized in one type of broadcasting or a specific audience • CNN • BET • MTV • Rap! • Video Games!!

  11. Society Under Stress • Crime and Drugs • DARE • Alcohol • MADD • Nationwide drinking age • AIDS

  12. Social Activism • Gay Activism • Stonewall riots • Environmental Activism • Artists as Activists • “Band Aid” • Older Americans too! • AARP • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2H6mpUnsLI

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