In this era of polarized politics, the image of President Ronald Reagan stands as a litmus test for party loyalty. To the conservative right, Reagan is the Great Communicator, a venerated icon of independent American spirit who restored national pride and power. To those on the left, he is an amiable dunce who distracted voters with anecdotes while dismantling the government to serve corporate interests. But as Michael Schaller reveals in his eye-opening biography, both extremes fall short of capturing the true essence of this captivating and contradictory man. This succinct, eloquent narrative reveals the dramatic force of the man behind the image. Schaller provides a poignant account of Reagan's struggles and achievements, from his small-town upbringing in rural Illinois, the son of an itinerant alcoholic, to his cinematic success in Hollywood, entry into California politics, and meteoric rise to the White House. Following the path of his life, Schaller illuminates Reagan's appeal to Americans of all regions and backgrounds, highlights his momentous impact on American politics, and describes his determination, once in power, to live up to his firm, long-established beliefs and ideals. A fast-paced, compact narrative filled with fascinating and often surprising details, Ronald Reagan sheds light on Reagan's real accomplishments at home and abroad and what they mean for America today.