The Great American Hero By: Sofia Ilardi

  

Intro:

Ronald Wilson Reagan served as the 40th president of the United States from 1981-1989. Before becoming the president he was governor of California from 1967 to 1975. He was known as the "Great Communicator" because he was a very talented public speaker. Throughout his years in office, Reagan served America just as a true leader should. While he passed away in 2004, he will go down as the greatest president in American history.

Greatest Accomplishments: 

- Tax Cuts: Reagan cut taxes for the working middle-class Americans

- Reaganomics: the tax cuts led to decreased unemployment and inflation, revolutionizing America's economic structure

- Reagan energized the Republican party which led to a new generation of the party

- America First: he focused on fixing problems within America before helping others

- Supporting the Military: Reagan was responsible for increased funding and development of America's armed forces.

- Cold War: Reagan took a stand against communism and has been credited for major turning points in the war.

Reagan speaking to the nation during his farewell speech

Reagan's Popularity:

In the 1984 reelection, Reagan earned 525 electoral college votes compared to Walter Mondale's 13 which is the most by any president. The reason he was able to thrive was simply due to the fact that he loved America and wanted to see the country and its people succeed. He had a very attractive personality and was able to "Make America Great Again" just like his slogan said. Reagan kept his promises and enforced action when needed. He provided every American with more opportunities to thrive, and people were able to realize that everything he did was to benefit the American people.

Why he is a Hero:

While I was not alive while Ronald Reagan was president, I can see the impact he had on not only America but the world. He started out living with a poor family in a small town and worked his way up which proved the American Dream was still alive. However, it was more about what he did while he was in office. He was brave when nobody else could be and stood up for what was right. He exemplified leadership, bravery, and dedication to the American people. Reagan brought a country together and defeated the U.S.S.R, overthrew the tax system, and made people respect America. The reason why he is a hero to me is that he put America first, a topic that is highly debated today. Reagan knew that he would have to fix internal problems before he would be able to help out others. While in office, he certainly succeeded with that and allowed every single American the opportunity to prosper. Reagan will surely go down as one of the best presidents of America, and be a hero to me because of the way he revolutionized America for generations to come.

Video: The Best of Reagan's Speeches