The Conservative Turn

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30

THE CONSERVATIVE TURN

1969–1989

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> What were the effects of America’s move to the political right on American society and on U.S. foreign policy? Chapter 30 explores the rise of conservatism as a major force in late-twentieth-century American politics. It examines the emergence of new strands of conservatism in the 1960s, the evolution of conservatism in the post-Watergate years, and its full expression in the politics and policies of Ronald Reagan.

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Figure false: Inauguration of Ronald Reagan, 1981. Chief Justice Warren Burger administers the oath of office to President Ronald Reagan. Dirck Halstead/Getty Images.

> How did the Nixon presidency reflect the rise of postwar conservatism?

> Why did the “outsider” presidency of Jimmy Carter fail to gain broad support?

> What conservative goals were realized in the Reagan administration?

> What strategies did liberals use to fight the conservative turn?

> How did Ronald Reagan’s foreign policy affect the Cold War?

> Conclusion: What was the long-term impact of the conservative turn?