by Charles W. Dunn (Editor) A former Sunday school teacher and Hollywood actor, Ronald Reagan was an unlikely candidate for president. His charisma, conviction, and leadership earned him the governorship of California, from which he launched his successful bid to become the fortieth president of the United States in 1980. Reagan's political legacy continues to be the standard by which all conservatives are judged. In The Enduring Reagan, editor Charles W. Dunn brings together eight prominent scholars to examine the politic Front Jacket The Enduring ReaganEdited by Charles W. Dunn An unlikely presidential candidate, Ronald Reagan forged his way into the political arena without family wealth or a prominent name. Reagan built his success in true American fashion -- from the ground up. Using the persuasive abilities he had perfected as an actor, the small-town boy from Illinois suavely won over California Republicans, securing the state's governorship and eventually the nation's presidency. Despite his humble beginnings, Reagan proved a serious political force, influencing political ideals not only during his term but even into the twenty-first century. In The Enduring Reagan, editor Charles W. Dunn unites eight prominent scholars to examine the political career and legacy of Ronald Reagan, offering a bold reassessment of his impact on the United States and the world. In his introduction, Dunn explores the ironies involved in Reagan's success, discussing how his background, his political decisions, and his critics' low expectations all counterintuitively contributed to his lasting reputation as a great president. Contributors study Reagan's influence in a variety of areas, including party politics, economic policy, national security, modern conservatism, liberal agendas, and the administrations of other presidents. Looking at Reagan as a person, politician, president, and conservative ideal, The Enduring Reagan examines how an unlikely candidate became president and how his actions in office continue to impact not only his own image in the American memory but also the ideas of subsequent politicians, conservative and liberal alike. Delving into the complex and lasting influence of an iconic figure in American politics, this volume expands the understanding of modern politics and of the man against whom all conservative politicians are measured. Charles W. Dunn, dean of the Robertson School of Government at Regent University, is the author or editor of sixteen books, including The Seven Laws of Presidential Leadership, The Future of Conservatism: Conflict and Consensus in the Post-Reagan Era, and The Future of Religion in American Politics.