70’s and 80’s Essay Questions:
These three essay questions cover some of the general themes of this chapter. Please create
an outline or list of points associated with each question to help you prepare an essay for
the test. We will discuss the questions during the review to clarify each question. On the
day of the test two of these three questions will be listed, you will be required to write an
essay on one of those two.
Question 1: Richard Nixon’s Presidency and the Watergate Scandal symbolized the
turmoil of the 1970’s. Discuss what was going on in the world at the time as well as the
effect of Watergate on the relationship between Americans and their president.
Question 2: Ronald Reagan’s presidency came to symbolize the political climate of the
1980’s, what did he accomplish during his two terms in office and what made him such a
popular president?
Question 3: Many modern social trends started in the 1970’s and 1980’s. What was
changing in society during those decades that created lasting changes and trends that exist
in America today? Please use specific examples.