Ronald Reagan transformed from Hollywood actor to conservative icon, serving as the 40th President and reshaping American politics for a generation. After leading the Screen Actors Guild and hosting General Electric Theater, Reagan entered politics as a spokesman for Barry Goldwater's 1964 campaign, then served two terms as California's governor.
Reagan's presidency marked a decisive turn from New Deal liberalism. His economic program—dubbed 'Reaganomics'—combined tax cuts, deregulation, and anti-union policies that reversed decades of progressive economic policy. His famous declaration that 'government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem' became the conservative movement's creed.
In foreign policy, Reagan pursued aggressive anti-communism, dramatically expanding military spending and supporting anti-Soviet forces worldwide. His partnership with Mikhail Gorbachev ultimately helped end the Cold War peacefully, though the Iran-Contra scandal marred his second term. Reagan's optimistic patriotism and communication skills earned him the title 'Great Communicator.'