The Reagan Revolution & Reaganomics

Why was the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980 a turning point during this period of U.S. history?

• It marked a major realignment in political ideology toward conservatism and smaller government
• It marked the expansion of New Deal policies
• It brought about a stronger federal role in welfare and civil rights enforcement
• It signaled the end of Cold War tensions with the USSR

How did Reaganomics reflect the political and economic characteristics of the new conservative era?

• It emphasized lower taxes, deregulation, and reduced social spending
• It promoted federal jobs programs and higher income taxes on the wealthy
• It increased environmental regulations and federal oversight
• It expanded the federal welfare system

What social characteristics of Reagan’s conservative coalition contributed to a new political era?

• Support from religious conservatives who promoted traditional family values
• Urban voters who demanded expanded federal programs
• Civil rights activists advocating for expanded affirmative action
• Young liberals protesting deregulation policies

Why was Reagan’s presidency a turning point in the ideological balance of the Supreme Court?

• He appointed conservative justices who favored law and order over civil liberties
• He expanded the Court with liberal justices who defended social welfare rights
• He reduced the Court’s influence by limiting judicial review of key cases
• He promoted a centrist approach that weakened party divisions on the Court

What theme best summarizes the economic philosophy of Reaganomics?

• Growth would come through tax cuts, investment, and less government control
• Prosperity required strong regulation, union support, and higher minimum wages
• Stability depended on balanced budgets, tariffs, and limited international trade
• Fairness was based on wealth redistribution and guaranteed social services

What was the result of Reagan’s tax policies

• Wealth inequality increased, and national debt rose due to tax and spending changes
• Federal deficits fell sharply due to major cuts in military and welfare spending
• The middle class expanded rapidly because of aggressive government hiring
• Most economic sectors slowed as interest rates and inflation remained high

What label is commonly applied to the coalition that emerged during Reagan’s presidency?

• The New Right combined social, economic, and religious conservatives
• The Progressive Bloc promoted equality, education, and universal healthcare
• The Fair Deal Group focused on labor rights and New Deal-era programs
• The National Unity Coalition encouraged bipartisan compromise and reform

What circumstances in the 1970s contributed to Reagan’s election and the shift in political power?

• Stagnant wages, inflation, and distrust in federal programs shaped voter concerns
• Expanding welfare programs and growing union strength led to national unity
• Widespread civil rights gains and education reform improved social stability
• Low unemployment and steady economic growth reduced public frustration

How did Reagan’s defense policy reflect the political circumstances of the Cold War era?

• He increased military spending to pressure the Soviet Union and project U.S. strength
• He reduced the defense budget to allow for domestic economic programs
• He encouraged peace by promoting nuclear disarmament agreements early in his term
• He relied primarily on the United Nations to resolve military conflicts

What was a consequence of Reagan-era deregulation policies in major U.S. industries?

• Environmental and safety rules were loosened to promote competition and investment
• Government agencies increased oversight of industries like oil and coal
• Consumer protections were expanded through federal regulations
• New labor standards were introduced to protect industrial workers