Early Life and Education of Ronald Reagan: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 2, 2025

An overview of the childhood and early education of Ronald Reagan, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

Ronald Reagan, the 40th U.S. President (1981-1989), was a pivotal figure in the American conservative movement. A Republican, he implemented supply-side economics, dubbed "Reaganomics," which aimed to reduce government spending and taxes to stimulate economic growth. Reagan strengthened the military, challenged the Soviet Union, and is credited by some with helping to end the Cold War. Domestically, he faced challenges like the AIDS epidemic and the Iran-Contra affair. Before his presidency, he was a Hollywood actor and Governor of California.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

February 6, 1911: Ronald Reagan's Birth

On February 6, 1911, Ronald Wilson Reagan was born in Tampico, Illinois. He would later become the 40th president of the United States.

Others born on this day/year

1920: Family Settles in Dixon, Illinois

In 1920, the Reagan family settled in Dixon, Illinois, living near the H. C. Pitney Variety Store Building.

1928: Enrollment in Eureka College

In 1928, Ronald Reagan began attending Eureka College, affiliated with the Disciples of Christ.

1930: Playing for Eureka Red Devils

In 1930, Ronald Reagan played for the Eureka Red Devils football team.

1931: Playing for Eureka Red Devils

In 1931, Ronald Reagan played for the Eureka Red Devils football team.

1932: Graduation from Eureka College

In 1932, Ronald Reagan graduated from Eureka College.

April 1937: Enlistment in the United States Army Reserve

In April 1937, Ronald Reagan enlisted in the United States Army Reserve.

October 1941: Draft Deferment for Kings Row Filming

In October 1941, Ronald Reagan received a draft deferment to complete filming of "Kings Row".

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April 1942: Beginning of Military Service

In April 1942, Ronald Reagan began his military service.

December 9, 1945: Discharge from Military Service

On December 9, 1945, Ronald Reagan was discharged from the United States Army Air Forces as a captain.

June 1948: Jane Wyman Files for Divorce

In June 1948, Jane Wyman filed for divorce from Ronald Reagan.

July 1949: Divorce Finalized

In July 1949, Ronald Reagan's divorce from Jane Wyman was finalized.

March 30, 1981: Assassination Attempt

On March 30, 1981, Reagan was shot by John Hinckley Jr. outside the Washington Hilton. He underwent surgery and recovered quickly, and the event created a bond between him and the American people.

1981: Start of AIDS Epidemic

In 1981, the AIDS epidemic began to unfold and was initially difficult to understand for physicians and the public.

October 19, 1983: Overthrow and murder of Maurice Bishop

On October 19, 1983, Maurice Bishop was overthrown and murdered by one of his colleagues, leading to increased instability in Grenada.

January 29, 1984: Reagan announces reelection campaign

On January 29, 1984, Reagan announced his reelection campaign with the slogan "America is back and standing tall".

1984: Invasion overshadowed Beirut Bombings

Cannon noted that throughout Reagan's 1984 presidential campaign, the invasion overshadowed the 1983 Beirut barracks bombings, which killed 241 Americans taking part in an international peacekeeping operation during the Lebanese Civil War.

October 1985: Death of Rock Hudson affects Reagan's view on AIDS

In October 1985, the death of President Reagan's friend Rock Hudson, due to complications from AIDS, prompted Reagan to seek more information about the disease.

January 20, 1989: Reagan Leaves Office

On January 20, 1989, Ronald Reagan left the presidency at the age of 77, making him the oldest president to leave office at the end of his tenure at the time.