Ronald Reagan Day is on February 6, and it’s time to celebrate one of the most popular presidents in American history. Before serving as the 40th president of the U.S., he was a Hollywood actor, union leader, and California governor. Reagan’s economic policies were nicknamed ‘Reaganomics’, which brought about one of the strongest periods of economic growth in the country. He cut taxes, decreased social spending, increased military spending, and was also credited with helping to bring a quicker end to the Cold War.
History of Ronald Reagan Day
Started in 2011, Ronald Reagan Day takes place annually on February 6 in the state of California and is a day to recognize the former Governor and President Ronald. Ronald Reagan Day has been declared a state holiday in Wisconsin.
Governors in 21 states issued proclamations designating February 6 as Ronald Reagan Day on the 100th anniversary of Reagan’s birthday in 2011. Later in 2013, 40 governors issued proclamations declaring Ronald Reagan Day in their respective states.
Raised in a low-income family in Tampico, Illinois, Reagan graduated from Eureka College and worked as a radio sports commentator. After moving to California in 1937, he found work as an actor. He later served as the Republican governor of California from 1967 to 1975 before becoming the 40th president from 1981 to 1989.
Being the first president since Dwight D. Eisenhower to serve two full terms, Reagan began implementing new political and economic initiatives. His supply-side economic policies supported tax reduction to spur economic growth, economic deregulation, and a decrease in government spending. Regan became a highly influential voice of modern conservatism and his tenure initiated a realignment toward conservative policies in the United States.
Reagan remains one of the most popular presidents in American history. An assessment of his presidency among historians and the general public places him among the upper tier of American presidents. As president, Reagan brought about a new political and economic era. Reagan, who survived an assassination attempt during his first term as president, died at age 93 after battling Alzheimer’s disease.
Ronald Reagan Day timeline
On February 6, Ronald Wilson Reagan is born.
Governor Gray Davis proclaims February 6 as Ronald Reagan Day.
On July 19, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signs SB 944 into law, making Ronald Reagan Day a permanent day of special significance in California.
The first Ronald Reagan Day is celebrated on February 6, 2011, on Reagan's 100th birthday.
Ronald Reagan Day FAQs
What does Reagan's “peace through strength” mean?
This phrase suggests that military power can help preserve peace. It has been used by many leaders from Roman Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century A.D. to former U.S. President Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. The concept has been associated with realpolitik.
What were the goals of Reaganomics?
The goals of Reaganomics were to raise defense spending, spending for social services, and to cut taxes.
Was Reagan shot?
On March 30, 1981, President Reagan was shot in the chest outside a Washington, D.C. hotel by a deranged drifter named John Hinckley Jr.
Ronald Reagan Day Activities
Take a history lesson
Spend this day by taking a history lesson on the life of one of the most influential presidents in the history of America. Reagan’s journey from a small town to becoming an actor and finally a president will sure make for an interesting read.
Organize an event
You can organize events in your community to celebrate Reagan’s life and political career. The events can include interesting activities such as fun quizzes and Reagan-themed games.
Share the celebrations
Share the celebrations with your friends and family. Use the #RonaldReagan hashtag on your social media accounts to celebrate the day with everyone.
5 Facts About Ronald Reagan
Reagan started as a Democrat
He supported the New Deal efforts of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
He worked as a lifeguard
Reagan saved an estimated 77 lives in his summers as a lifeguard in Illinois.
The first divorced president
Reagan was the first divorced person to become president of the United States.
He loved jelly beans
His favorite flavor was licorice, according to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.
He was never considered for “Casablanca”
Reagan was never considered for any role in the movie, and Humphrey Bogart was always the original choice to play the lead role.
Why We Love Ronald Reagan Day
It honors Ronald Reagan
Reagan was a former actor and California governor, who served as the 40th president of the U.S. His supply-side economic policies, nicknamed "Reaganomics", reduced tax rates, increased military spending, reduced government regulation, and tightened the money supply to reduce inflation.
He was one of the most popular presidents
Reagan is considered one of the most popular presidents in American history because of his optimism for the country. Reagan introduced supply-side economic policies, which led to the creation of a new political and economic idea.
It highlights important moments in history
Reagan's policies played an integral part in bringing about the third-longest peacetime economic expansion in U.S. history. During the Reagan administration, the average GDP increased compared to the previous few years, while the annual average unemployment rate declined.
Ronald Reagan Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 6 | Thursday |
| 2026 | February 6 | Friday |
| 2027 | February 6 | Saturday |
| 2028 | February 6 | Sunday |
| 2029 | February 6 | Tuesday |
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