Ronald Reagan
S- Birthday
- February 6, 1911
- Age
- 115
- Height
- 6'1" (185 cm)
- Net Worth
- $15M
About
Ronald Reagan was an American politician and actor who served as the 40th president of the United States from 1981 to 1989. Before his political career, he was a successful Hollywood actor appearing in over 50 films. A member of the Republican Party, he became a defining figure in the American conservative movement, and his presidency is known as the Reagan era. His policies emphasized tax cuts, deregulation, increased military spending, and a strong anti-communist foreign policy that contributed to the end of the Cold War.
Career Timeline
Signs with Warner Bros Pictures
Reagan moves from radio to Hollywood, signing a contract with Warner Bros. He begins appearing in B-movies, establishing himself as a working actor but not yet a major star.
Becomes Screen Actors Guild President
Reagan is elected president of the Screen Actors Guild, raising his profile in Hollywood and beginning his transition into leadership roles. His political views begin shifting from liberal Democrat to conservative Republican during this period.
General Electric Theater Host Begins
Reagan becomes host and spokesperson for GE Theater, earning substantial income and traveling the country speaking to employees. This role transforms him into a national figure and polished conservative spokesman.
Elected Governor of California
Reagan defeats incumbent Pat Brown to become California's governor, marking his entry into serious politics. His tough stance on student protests and welfare reform establishes his conservative credentials.
Nearly Defeats Ford for Nomination
Reagan challenges incumbent President Gerald Ford for the Republican nomination, nearly winning. Though he loses, he emerges as the conservative movement's leader and front-runner for 1980.
Wins Presidency Defeating Carter
Reagan wins a landslide victory over Jimmy Carter, becoming the 40th president. His victory represents a conservative revolution and realignment of American politics.
Survives Assassination Attempt
Reagan survives being shot by John Hinckley Jr. just 69 days into his presidency, with his grace under pressure boosting his popularity. His recovery and humor during the crisis makes him a beloved figure to many Americans.
Re-election Landslide Victory
Reagan wins re-election carrying 49 states in one of the largest landslides in American history. His 'Morning in America' campaign and strong economy cement his status as a transformative political figure.
Berlin Wall Speech and Gorbachev
Reagan delivers his famous 'Tear down this wall' speech in Berlin and develops a working relationship with Gorbachev. His role in ending the Cold War becomes his defining foreign policy legacy despite the Iran-Contra scandal.
Death and National Mourning
Reagan dies at age 93 after a decade-long battle with Alzheimer's disease, receiving a state funeral and national mourning. He is remembered as a transformative president who defined modern conservatism and helped end the Cold War, remaining an icon to Republicans and widely respected figure in American history.
