I think Reagan's role shouldn't be understated. Two days after 241 American servicemen were killed in Lebanon, Reagan showed his resolve and invaded mighty Grenada where a few dozen Cuban construction workers under Soviet funding were defeated.

He said afterward that "America is standing tall", and this defeat of mighty Grenada was a severe blow for the Evil Empire.

Well to be fair to the might Soviet army of A Few Dozen Cuban Construction Workers Battalion they were caught off guard on a tea break.

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"I don't think we should be governing ourselves. What we need is a king, and every now and then if the king’s not doing a good job, we kill him." - George Carlin

Reagan's role played a significant factor in the collapse. Carter would have surrendered on every item. Gorby called Reagan the toughest negotiator he has ever met. His defense policies and negotiating tactics as well as work behind the scenes with Poland helped to expedite the collapse.

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All you need to know about the energy crisis:
ANWR Exploration Republicans: 91% Supported. Democrats: 86% Opposed.
Coal-to-liquid R's: 90% YES. D's: 78% NO.
Oil Shale Exploration R's: 90% YES. D's: 86% NO.
Outer Continental Shelf Exploration R's: 81% YES. D's: 83% NO.
Increased Refinery Capacity R's: 97% YES. D's: 96% NO

SUMMARY: 91% of House Republicans have historically voted to increase the production of America’s own oil and gas. 86% of House Democrats have historically voted against.