Reagan becomes U.S. President (1981)

Question 1

When did Reagan become President and what was his attitude to the USSR?

Answer 1

Reagan became U.S. President in 1981. He took a hard-line stance against the USSR, calling it an “evil empire”, and rejected the idea of détente.

Question 2

What actions did Reagan take against the USSR?

Answer 2

• Increased defence spending massively (launched the Strategic Defense Initiative – SDI, or “Star Wars”)
• Gave support to anti-communist groups around the world
• Took a more aggressive, anti-communist approach than previous presidents

Question 3

Q: Why was Reagan significant in the Cold War?

Answer 3

His tough policies pressured the USSR economically and militarily
• Helped bring about the Second Cold War in the early 1980s
• Later worked with Gorbachev in the mid–late 1980s to reduce tensions
• Played a role in ending the Cold War, especially through his talks with Gorbachev and pushing for arms reduction