12.1The Reagan revolution

Ronald Reagan's election in 1980 marked a decisive conservative turn. He argued that "government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem," and he set out to cut taxes, reduce regulation, and shrink domestic spending while sharply increasing military budgets. His approach, dubbed "supply-side economics," reshaped economic debate.

Reagan's presidency redefined the Republican Party as the champion of small government, low taxes, a strong defense, and traditional social values, uniting economic conservatives with a growing religious right. His personal optimism and political skill made conservatism the dominant force in American politics, shifting the center of debate rightward and forcing Democrats to adapt over the following decades.