Ronald Reagan
Ronald Wilson Reagan
40th President of the United States, former actor and governor, renowned for his communication skills and leadership during the late Cold War.
Biography
Born in Tampico, Illinois, in 1911, Ronald Reagan began his career as a radio sports announcer before moving to Hollywood in the 1930s. He appeared in over 50 films and became president of the Screen Actors Guild, where he honed his public speaking and leadership skills.
He was elected governor of California in 1966 where he implemented conservative fiscal policies and built a reputation as a persuasive communicator. His 1964 “A Time for Choosing” address thrust him onto the national stage as a leading voice of the conservative movement. In 1980, he won the presidency on a platform of tax cuts, strong defense, and rolling back government regulation. His economic policies, dubbed “Reaganomics,” and firm stance against the Soviet Union defined an era and helped bring about the end of the Cold War. After leaving office in 1989, he remained an influential figure until his death in 2004.
As a Public Speaker
Nicknamed "The Great Communicator," Reagan connected with audiences through storytelling, humor, and optimism. He often used simple, relatable anecdotes to convey complex ideas whether explaining supply-side economics or rallying allies against communism. His clear, reassuring style made him one of the most effective orators of the 20th century.
Notable Speeches
A chronological collection of Ronald Reagan's most significant addresses
Remarks at Omaha Beach
Commemoration of the 40th anniversary of D-Day, honoring Allied valor at Normandy.
Read MoreLegacy & Impact
Cold War Leadership
Reagan's firm stance and strategic policies accelerated the end of the Soviet-American standoff, reinforcing democratic values worldwide.
Economic Reform
His supply side economic agenda: tax cuts, deregulation, and reduced government spending, reshaped U.S. fiscal policy for decades.
Communication Style
By combining warmth, wit, and clear messaging, Reagan set a new standard for presidential oratory and earned the title 'The Great Communicator.'
Notable Quotes
Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.
— Inaugural Address, January 20, 1981
Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!
— Speech at the Brandenburg Gate, Berlin, June 12, 987
The nine most terrifying words in the English language are: 'I'm from the government and I'm here to help.'
— Address to the National Association of REALTORS, March 28, 1986
Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.
— A Time for Choosing, October 27, 1964
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