By the 1980's, the Cold War had been raging for many years. Each American president came into office and tried to win this Cold War using their own unique strategy. Some tried executing brilliant ideas laid out in the form of a doctrine, treaty or plan. Others tried a different approach by military operations and tough confrontation with the Soviet Union. Sadly, none of these men succeeded. Relations with the Soviets were at an all time low. The United States had fought a war that many did not believe they should be involved in, mourned the loss of a beloved president, and witnessed scandal at the highest level of office. Americans were ready for a change, so they took a chance with Ronald .
Reagan to see if he could do what he promised. Thanks to the American people, Reagan proved that he could greatly influence the end of the Cold War.
Ronald Reagan was a man of many talents, from his start as a radio personality,an actor, and to governor, which started his path down the road to politics. Though Reagan had campaigned for the presidency previously, it wasn't until 1980 that he won. He was ready this time, by promising to cut taxes, make the world a better place and stop the Soviets from their aggressive behavior, which is what the public wanted to see. Another smart move he made was to choose his chief rival for the Republican nomination, George Bush, Sr. as his running mate (Schaller, 448). Americans may have reconsidered his election after his first few months in office, due to the lack of change from past presidents. As Crockatt states, "For several months following Reagan's inauguration, there was little inclination within the administration to undertake new initiatives with the Soviet Union-(316). Reagan wanted to test out the waters, get the hang of everything and win over the public before he tried anything too radical. It was a smart move, though he was ready to attack Communism, which had been a longtime hatred of his.
