Exploring American Histories: Printed Page 925
Interpret the Evidence
What was the goal of the Boland Amendment (Document 28.5), and was its wording sufficient to meet that goal? Why or why not?
What, if anything, surprises you about the Freedom Fighter’s Manual (Document 28.6)? Why would it focus on these specific activities, and do you think they were effective?
What does the Tower Commission conclude about Ronald Reagan’s management style (Document 28.7)? How does Reagan respond (Document 28.8)?
Why did Oliver North assume that President Reagan knew about his activities (Document 28.9)? How does his testimony compare with what Reagan says he knew (Document 28.8)? Can they both be right?
Why does George Mitchell focus on the rule of law in his speech (Document 28.10)? How does he relate that idea to patriotism?
Put It in Context
Compare the Iran-Contra scandal with Watergate (chapter 27). How did Reagan’s presidency survive such a scandal when Nixon’s did not?