U.S. President Ronald Reagan served as the 40th president from 1981 to 1989. Before his presidency, he was a Hollywood actor and the governor of California. Reagan is known for his conservative policies, including tax cuts and a strong stance against the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Reagan's administration focused on economic growth, often referred to as "Reaganomics," which aimed to reduce government spending and regulation. He also played a significant role in ending the Cold War by promoting diplomacy and military strength, leading to improved relations with Mikhail Gorbachev, the leader of the Soviet Union.