Conservatism in America is a reflection of attitudes in social and political context. Political beliefs have been defined as either liberal or conservative. Conservatives in America are usually strong supporters of free market. To keep the market honest, the supporters have different opinions on the regulation required in the market. There are also varying views on individual liberties in the society. Conservatism can be economic or social. There are those who are social conservatives and not economic conservative.
In 1980, Americans embraced conservatism in political, social and economic life. This was seen by the policies set by former President Ronal Regan. Americans embraced conservatism after the country was hit by various issues such as turmoil on foreign policy, rising crime and inflation in the 1970’s. This was after the idealistic dreams promised in the 1960 by President Jimmy Carter were won down. Americans lost hope in their government and fellow citizens after events such as the countercultural and radical movements, the Vietnam War, the Watergate scandal, economic crisis and uncertainty in the Middle East. The conservatism policies of the 1980’s are remembered for consumerism and materialism. The 1980’s was also a time where cable television networks and blockbuster movies were on the rise and many iconic artists came up.
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The growth of the conservative in the United States increased in the early 1980’s as it appealed to many Americans. It appealed to those who defended having an unrestricted market, white liberals, those who wanted America to have a powerful presence abroad, those who were anti-tax, evangelical Christians and those who advocated smaller markets and deregulation. In April 1980, Reagan got support from religious institutions as they supported his position on social issues. In November 1980, Reagan was elected president. Republican candidate Reagan was supported by Reagan democrats who helped him get crucial votes. He was a Hollywood actor which resulted to his popularity. His campaign appealed to many conservatives as he promised smaller government and reduced taxes. Regan also supported anticommunist insurgencies and governments all over the world to spread communism during the cold war in 1981.
In 1981, Reagan reduced tax cuts to stimulate economy. He believed that this would solve the issue of high inflation and unemployment. In 1983, the United States experienced recession with so many people unemployed. People lost their homes and businesses closed. However, the economy went back to normal and people regained their trust in Reagan. Despite the debts which accrued when Regan was the president, many people overlooked it. People continued to believe in the agenda of President Reagan even after he left office in 1989.
In 1982, President Reagan called for a crusade for Freedom. According to his speech, the march of freedom would end communism. He asked the British to help other countries in their struggle for freedom.
In 1987, America stated its terms for ending the cold war. President Reagan challenged Mikhail Gorbachev, the soviet leader to end control over satellites in Eastern Europe. This helped to further increase his popularity with the people. In 1989, the satellite states were free from soviet control. In Eastern Europe Reagan was considered a hero as communism collapsed in Russia and East Germany was absorbed by West Germany.
Political conservatism in America in the 1980’s was reflected in the pop culture. Young professionals were focused on buying consumer goods and making money. There was development in America during this period as many people were connected to cable networks, owned VCR’s and watched movie. This made some artists megastars and influenced fashion.
References
Allitt, P. (2009). The Conservatives: Ideas and Personalities throughout American History. Yale University Press.
Dunn, C. & Woodard, D. (1991). American conservatism from Burke to Bush: an introduction. Madison Books.
