In 3 sentences, summarize how Reagan changed the role of government and evaluate whether his policies benefited the country. Give 2 specific examples of policies during the Reagan era that addressed the problems Reagan mentioned in his Inaugural Address.

1 answer

Ronald Reagan fundamentally altered the role of government by promoting a philosophy of limited government and deregulation, arguing that the private sector should drive economic growth and individual responsibility should replace governmental intervention. His policies, such as the Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981, which aimed to stimulate investment through tax cuts, and the deregulation of industries like telecommunications and transportation, sought to reduce government influence in the economy. While supporters argue that these policies led to significant economic expansion and job creation, critics contend that they exacerbated income inequality and increased the national debt, suggesting a mixed legacy in terms of overall benefit to the country.