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A bold new history of modern conservatism that finds its origins in the populist right-wing politics of the 1990s Ronald Reagan has long been lionized for building a conservative coalition sustained by an optimistic vision of Americanexceptionalism, small government, and free markets. But as historian Nicole Hemmer reveals, the Reagan coalition was short-lived; it fell apart as soon as its charismatic leader left office. In the 1990s - a decade that has yet to be recognized as the breeding ground for today's polarizing politics - changing demographics and the emergence of a new political-entertainment media fueled the rise of combative far-right politicians and pundits. These partisans, from Pat Buchanan and Newt Gingrich to Rush Limbaugh and Laura Ingraham, forged a new American right that emphasized anti-globalism, appeals to white resentment, and skepticism about democracy itself.



About the Author

Nicole Hemmer

Nicole Hemmer is an assistant professor in presidential studies at the University of Virginia's Miller Center. She is a contributing editor to U.S. News & World Report, syndicated columnist for the Melbourne Age, and co-host of the Past Present podcast.



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