Factors causing Reagan, a conservative Republican, to get elected in 1980

inflation and "throwing money at the problem", hence they sought to reduce taxes and limit government regulation of industry in order to promote economic growth

wanted to rely on our own national defense to fight against communism in other countries

criticized big government and high taxes

growing conservative movement

population trends rose

allowed free markets and private organizations; which was good because many people owned private businesses due to mistrust in the government

unraveling of democratic party

felt liberal policies were responsible for stagflation

Great Society made poverty worse

rise of religious groups such as the Moral majority

Carter looked lame

are you better off than you were 4 years ago? NO

more charismatic and polished

strong military and faith in traditional values