EDITOR’S NOTE: This article appears in the June 28, 2004, issue of National Review.
It is said that greatness doesn’t need to be explained. That’s true for those paying attention. Sadly, most people’s historical perspective traces back to the day they were born.
Millions of Americans under the age of 30 have no concrete memory of Ronald Reagan’s presidency and yet benefit from his greatness. I would like to explain to them why–because the simple fact is that now, in death, Reagan once again defines the utter beauty and blessing that is America and reminds us all of our destiny
His greatness does not reside in a single speech, or a single phrase, or a single memory. Reagan was great because he dared to embrace big ideas, to do big things, and to overcome big obstacles. He was great because he never gave up on his country. Most important, he never doubted the wisdom and judgment of the American people.
YOU CAN READ THE REST OF THIS ARTICLE IN THE CURRENT ISSUE OF THE NEW DIGITAL VERSION OF NATIONAL REVIEW. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A SUBSCRIPTION TO NR DIGITAL OR NATIONAL REVIEW, YOU CAN SIGN UP FOR A SUBSCRIPTION TO NATIONAL REVIEW here OR NATIONAL REVIEW DIGITAL here (a subscription to NR includes Digital access).