The Iran-Contra Affair In The 1980's

The 1980s are filled with many positive memories for americans. Great strides were made toward social freedom and equality in the 1960s and 70s and much of the progress rolled into the 1980s. However, not all was perfect in the 1980s as there was multiple controversial decisions made by politicians, most dealing with foreign affairs. Some of these affairs include Reagan’s strategic defense plan, US intervention in Nicaragua and the Iran-Contra affair. All three of these scenarios were somewhat controversial and many argue damage the reputation of President Reagan. Despite these disappointing low moments, Reagan still managed to end his presidency with one of the highest approval ratings. One low in particular was the iran-contra affair which damaged the reputation of the government after the affair became exposed in a Lebanese magazine. (1) The Iran-contra

The most controversial parts of the affair include negations with terrorist, supplying arms to a terrorist group, followed by the diverting of money to a Reagan friendly Contras in Nicaragua. The United states had made a clear cut decision in which the government would never negotiate with terrorist. The idea is base on the principle in which negotiating with terrorists legitimizes the acts, thus proving such tactics are successful against the United States. (4) President Ronald Reagan was one of those presidents who stood by this decree and claimed to believe it for all its worth. So much so Reagan told America “We will not negotiate with terrorists” (3) Many americans choose to believe him, Reagan was consider one of the most honest men