The key factors that led to the election of Ronald Reagan, the rise of the conservative movement, and the resurgence of the Republican party include:
Economic Stagnation: In the 1970s, the United States experienced a period of economic stagnation characterized by high inflation and high unemployment rates. Many Americans felt that the government was not effectively addressing these economic problems, leading to a desire for change.
The Vietnam War and the Anti-War Movement: The Vietnam War had a significant impact on American politics and society in the 1970s. Many Americans became disillusioned with the war and the government's handling of it, leading to a rise in the anti-war movement. This movement helped to shift the focus of American politics towards issues of social justice and civil rights.
The New Right: The New Right was a conservative movement that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It was made up of a coalition of conservative Christians, anti-communists, and fiscal conservatives who opposed government intervention in the economy. The New Right played a significant role in shaping the Republican Party and pushing it further to the right.
Ronald Reagan: Ronald Reagan was a charismatic and popular politician who was able to appeal to a wide range of voters. He presented himself as a strong leader who could restore America's economic and military strength. He also embraced conservative values and was able to unite the various factions of the Republican Party.
Media and Communications: The rise of cable television and talk radio in the 1980s gave conservative voices a larger platform. Conservative media personalities like Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity were able to rally conservative voters and push the Republican Party further to the right.
Demographic Changes: The United States was undergoing significant demographic changes in the 1970s and 1980s. The rise of the suburban middle class and the decline of urban areas helped to shift the political landscape in favor of the Republican Party. Additionally, the growth of the Sun Belt region (southern and western states) led to an increase in conservative voters.