The Life And Times Of Ronald Reagan

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Edward Reagan, who was of Irish-American ancestry, earned his living as a shoe salesman. Alcoholism cursed the life of Jack Reagan. His older son Neil said bluntly that it prevented him form becoming a business success. However, Ronald blames the twin curse of drink and the Depression. Both boys escaped much of the bitterness which can afflict the children of alcoholics because their mother consoled them that their father's drinking " was a sickness" which deserved their compassion.
Nelle Reagan dominated the household and pushed both sons in the direction of education and a better life. She was a determined improver, dragging her husband and her children to lectures, recitals, and plays. She instilled in her sons her belief in the essential goodness of all people and the importance of religious devotion.
"Reagan describes his boyhood as a rare Huck Finn idyll in which he discovered butterflies and birds' nests, explored the dark mysteries of woods and ...

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town to which the family moved when he was nine, was the place where Reagan got most of his schooling. He was not an understanding student, but his interests in drama, sports, and politics began early. His mother gave dramatic readings before clubs and in prisons and hospitals, and he was first exposed to acting before he started school. He was in several well - received school plays. His love of the developed further at Eureka College. His grades were not exceptional, but he earned acceptable marks through "quick studies" before tests. Reagan was particularly drawn to moralistic dramas featuring heroes who against great odds prevail by being true to their core value. In Reagan's ...

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