The 1980's

Rise of Conservatism

1980

opposed affirmative action, entitlement programs, and support of big businesses.

Reganomics

1980

Government budget and tax cuts

moral Majority

1980

Organization of fundamentalists and evangelical Christians that support traditional family values and vote republican

Iran Contra Affair

1983

7 Americans are taken into hostage Lebanon by pro-iranian terrorist groups; Regan tells American companies not to sell weapons to Iran; Regan administration violates this rule by selling weapons to Iran in exchange for the release of the hostages; money from the weapon sales is sent to American-supported contras in Nicaragua who are fighting against a communist government; breas law and Regan's staff members are indicted.