Ronald Wilson Reagan was an American politician and actor who served as the 40th president of the United States from 1981 to 1989. A member of the Republican Party, he previously held the office of governor of California from 1967 to 1975. Reagan's presidency is noted for significant tax cuts, a strong anti-communist foreign policy, and the deregulation of various industries. His administration also faced challenges such as the Iran-Contra affair and economic issues, including inflation and unemployment.