The 80’s
Reagan
• Elected at 69, the oldest man to serve as president
• Was distrustful of the federal government
“The Great Communicator”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpwdcmjBgNA - Bear in the Woods
Reaganomics
• Tax cuts will stimulate the economy Expanding economy = more tax revenue
• Reduce government spending Cut food stamps, welfare and unemployment
• Supposed to redistribute wealth Wealthiest average income grew 75% Poorest grew only 7%
Reaganomics
• Federal regulations impeded economic growth Abolish or reduce federal regulation of the
workplace, healthcare, environment• So long, New Deal and Great Society!!
One result:
Deinstitutionalizing
the mentally ill
Where did the money go?
$1.2 trillion
defense buildup
1986 - Scandal
• “Arms for Hostages” deal with Iran to release hostages held in Lebanon by pro-Iranian forces
• Profits were used to fund the Contras
Reagan Legacy
• Conservative judicial appointments O’Connor, Scalia and Kennedy
• National Debt TRIPLED in his two terms
Decade of Indulgence
• Yuppies Young Urban
Professionals Moneymakers
concerned with material things
• Cable television! Specialized in one type of broadcasting or a
specific audience• CNN• BET• MTV
• Rap!• Video Games!!
Technology and the Media
Society Under Stress
• Crime and Drugs DARE
• Alcohol MADD Nationwide
drinking age
• AIDS
Social Activism
• Gay Activism Stonewall riots
• Environmental Activism
• Artists as Activists “Band Aid”
• Older Americans too! AARP
• http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2H6mpUnsLI