>>>>No matter the details, he did give his people back their pride when things were pretty grim for a long while. That's a big achievment for any leader.
>>>
>>>I think this signaled the end of truth in politics and the beginning of spin.
>>
>>THAT could well be true. But you can't blame "the people" for that.
>
>Sure you can. They elected then re-elected him. And bought his line that things were getting better, when the early 80's were a disaster economically.

I say you can't - at that time.
If Reagan's reign was the BEGINNING of spin, you can't blame the people for not recognizing spin as opposed to the truth. They expected truth from their leaders and much was done to say that President Nixon was an aberration.

Hell, people have a hard enough time even today discerning the truth! I honestly suspect everything I hear/read from the U.S. "press" particularly, and much of the Canadian press too.
Today the press is ruled by profitability, and they are extremely aware that the ruling party, whichever the party, can do far more to help their profitability than any outsider.
Time Inc. recently "caved" and furnished documents to the Special Prosecutor investigating the White House leak. Believe me, the corporate OWNERS are most pleased with this! In the end they'd prefer that there were no leaks and this move will help to assure that. You see, leaks compromise their cozy position with the powerful, and there is also the spectre of leaks happening TO themselves. far more comfortable to never have to deal with leaks, all the while letting their editors/reporters criticize court decisions regarding contempt charges.