Final answer:
The conservative movement of the 1980s arose as a response to the politics and federal programs of the 1960s, driven by conservative think tanks, social issues, and a desire to reduce government intervention and promote traditional values. The influence of politicians like Ronald Reagan marked a significant shift towards conservatism in American political life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The politics and federal programs of the 1960s, characterized by a liberal perspective on civil rights, social welfare, and government intervention, set the stage for a conservative counter-movement toward the end of the 1970s. This shift was fueled by a reaction to perceived overreach by the federal government and concerns over social changes. During the 1980s, conservative thinkers and politicians called for a reduction in government size, cutting back social programs, and advocated for traditional values.
The rise of conservatism was furthered by the establishment of conservative think tanks like the American Enterprise Institute and the Heritage Foundation, which shaped public discourse. These organizations, backed by donations from supporters and wealthy individuals, promoted issues that led to conservative electoral victories. The call to lower taxes, reduce government spending, and a general skepticism towards powerful labor unions and progressive tax policies resonated with many middle- and working-class Americans.
Controversial social issues, such as the abortion debate post-Roe v. Wade and the AIDS crisis, alongside the war on drugs, added to the conservative cause. Politicians like Ronald Reagan capitalized on the conservative agenda, seeking to dismantle liberal policies, champion traditional family values, and shift the economic landscape towards supply-side economics.