Ronald Reagan's life is a fascinating example of a man who believed America could be a great nation and then worked to make his belief come true. With his optimism, persistence, and belief in the fundamental goodness of people, President Reagan brought hope to a nation disenchanted by presidential scandals and a weak economy and helped it rediscover its American ideals. Excerpted from Ronald Reagan by Heather Lehr Wagner All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.