1980s

Rise of Conservatism

1980

oppose affirmative action/entitlement programs, support big businesses, Christianity, and traditions. Oppose abortion and ERA. Reduce spending

Reganomics

1981

(supply-side or trickle-down economics): government budget cuts and tax cuts

Iran Contra Affair

1983

7 Americans are taken a hostage in Lebanon by pro- Iranian terrorist groups; Regan tells American companies not to sell weapons to Ira; Regan administration violates this rule by selling weapons to Iran in exchange of release of the hostages; the money of the weapon sales is sent to American -supported contras in Nicaragua

Moral Majority

1989

Organization of fundamentalist and evangelical Christians that support traditional family values and vote Republican.