Metro East Sun

Ronald Wilson Reagan, born on February 6, 1911, in Tampico, Illinois, rose to become the 40th President of the United States. His journey from Illinois to the presidency reflects values and experiences gained during his early years.

Reagan was the second son of John “Jack” Reagan, a shoe salesman, and Nelle Wilson Reagan. The family faced economic challenges and moved frequently across Illinois. Despite hardships, Reagan’s parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and optimism. His mother nurtured his faith and compassion for others.

The family's relocations meant that young Ronald attended multiple schools across Illinois. He began at Silas Willard Elementary School in Galesburg, followed by Monmouth Central School in Monmouth, and later Tampico Grade School. In 1920, they settled in Dixon where he completed primary education at South Central Grammar School and attended Dixon High School. At Dixon High, he participated in sports, drama, and student government.

A significant experience was his job as a lifeguard at Lowell Park on the Rock River in Dixon from 1926 to 1932. He is credited with saving 77 lives over six summers.

In 1928, Reagan enrolled at Eureka College in Eureka, Illinois. He pursued economics and sociology while participating in football, theater, and serving as student body president.

After graduating in 1932, Reagan sought opportunities in radio broadcasting. He secured a position as a sports announcer for WOC in Davenport, Iowa, and later for WHO in Des Moines.

Reagan’s eloquence led to a screen test with Warner Brothers in 1937. This marked the beginning of his acting career where he appeared in over 50 films including “Knute Rockne: All American.” He also served as president of the Screen Actors Guild.

Post-World War II brought changes to Reagan’s political views. Initially a Democrat, his involvement with the Screen Actors Guild prompted a shift toward conservative ideals. By the 1950s he became a spokesperson for General Electric advocating free-market principles.

In 1966 Reagan was elected Governor of California defeating incumbent Pat Brown. His tenure focused on reducing budget deficits and reforming welfare programs.

After an unsuccessful bid for Republican nomination in 1976 Reagan secured it in 1980 choosing George H.W. Bush as running mate leading to victory over President Jimmy Carter.

Reagan's presidency from 1981 to 1989 included supply-side economic policies known as "Reaganomics," which advocated tax cuts and deregulation but contributed to federal deficits; a firm Cold War stance against the Soviet Union; military buildup; Strategic Defense Initiative; diplomatic engagements with Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev leading to arms reduction agreements.

Reagan's life reflected American ideals: hard work and optimism with commitment to freedom whether as lifeguard actor governor or president leading with purpose belief potential of American people reshaping nation's financial landscape foreign policy ending Cold War inspiring generation influencing economic thought political philosophy legacy studied debated honored decades after presidency roots remain source pride boyhood home preserved historical site Ronald Reagan Trail visitors walk footsteps reminding future defined vision determination values echoing words “America’s best days are yet to come.”

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