>John,
>
> Thanks that was exactally what I was looking for..so basically Reagan was like an 8 year shot of patriotism into a country still confused and distrustful after the Vietnam/Watergate eras? Again thank you very much...

Sean,

You're essentially right on target.

I'd think that his ability to make the country feel better about itself was the biggest issue.

Additionally, and contrary to what you hear in the press, by lowering the higher marginal tax rate from in the 70th percentile to the high 30's he unleashed a huge torrent of cash, much of which the current occupant is trying to take credit for these days. John Kennedy did the same thing with the same results BTW so this isn't an us vs. them thing.

There's more but as you suggested it'd take a lot to go over and since most folks think with their emotions regarding politics rather than their heads it's kind of a tough thing to deal with online.

Best,

DD