America in the 1980s and 1990s (1980-1999) Lesson 1 The Conservative Movement Surges

America in the 1980s and 1990s (1980-1999) Lesson 1 The Conservative Movement Surges Learning Objectives Describe the differences between liberal and conservative viewpoints. Analyze the causes behind the conservative resurgence in the early 1980s. Explain why Ronald Reagan won the presidency in 1980.

America in the 1980s and 1990s (1980-1999) Lesson 1 The Conservative Movement Surges Key Terms Liberals conservatives New Right unfunded mandates Moral Majority Ronald Reagan

Liberals and Conservatives Diverge Reemergence of the Republican Party Conservativism More traditional values / small government Too many government regulations on businesses and environment Too much money at social programs Republicans choose Roland Reagan Liberals Larger role from the Federal Government Social programs Poor, unemployed, elderly Civil Rights / Equality Women + Minorities

Liberals and Conservatives Diverge Analyze Information In the 1980s, what might a liberal have believed about government involvement in the economy?

The Increasing Popularity of the New Right Republicans and Democrats become divided New Right – new conservative agenda Resurgence of the conservative era Decline of the Liberalism Vietnam War and Urban riots – many people blamed democrats/liberalism Counterculture and Feminism (too liberal to conservatives) Lost faith in the federal government 1970’s economic crisis, Watergate, Iran Contra, Pentagon Papers Johnson focused on Vietnam and not the Great Society

The Increasing Popularity of the New Right Criticizing Liberal Programs

The Increasing Popularity of the New Right At the 1980 Republican National Convention, presidential candidate Ronald Reagan and running mate George H. W. Bush emphasized the need for tax cuts, a balanced budget, and increased defense spending.

The Increasing Popularity of the New Right Analyze Data During which years did the inflation rate rise steadily?

A Conservative Wins the White House The growing conservative movement swept the Republican presidential candidate Ronald Reagan, to victory in the 1980 election. Much more charismatic and polished than Goldwater, Reagan made clear his opposition to big government, his support for a strong military, and his faith in traditional values. Just as importantly, he radiated optimism, convincing Americans that he would usher in a new era of prosperity and patriotism.

A Conservative Wins the White House Ronald Reagan, shown here in a 1951 Hollywood studio shot, originally supported New Deal policies. He later became a conservative, believing that Americans should oppose the expansion of the federal government.

A Conservative Wins the White House Analyze Information Some describe the 1980 presidential election as a close contest. In what way was this true? In what way was it not true?