Center for Civic Education: Ronald Reagan and Executive Power [Pdf]

This site is a comprehensive examination of Ronald Reagan's administration and how he used his executive powers. It looks at his policies and his ongoing legacy. Includes videos, historical context, and lesson plans from elementary up.

Article II of the United States Constitution grants Presidents executive powers in areas of international conflict, domestic and foreign policy. Using examples drawn from Ronald Reagan's presidency, class members are asked to consider...

This lesson traces Ronald Reagan's ascent from obscurity to the pinnacle of political power in the United States. It also examines the constitutional, political, and civic principles associated with the public life of Ronald Reagan...

This lesson looks at the legacy of George Washington, perhaps the most influential leader in the creation of the American nation. Through his achievements as commander-in-chief during the Revolution, in support of the drafting and...

This lesson traces the rise of Abraham Lincoln from his humble beginnings to the presidency of the United States. You will examine Lincoln's ideas and decisions regarding slavery and the use of the presidential power to preserve the...

Presidents' Day lessons for Grades 10-12 on the constitutional legacies of George Washington, James Madison, Abraham Lincoln, and Ronald Reagan, and how they shaped the history and Constitution of our nation. Each lesson plan was written...

This lesson examines the legacy of the "philosopher statesman," James Madison. Madison combined the intellectual knowledge and creativity of the scholar with the practical savvy of the politician, a man of strong principles who also...

George Washington had a role in establishing our nation from the Revolutionary War through his presidency. He was a commander, a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, and a reluctant first President. Analyze his political...

James Madison has been called the "Father of the Constitution". His ideas have shaped the role of our government, the role of political parties, the Bill of Rights and more. This lesson offers extensive background, critical thinking...

Explore the life of Abraham Lincoln from his childhood through his presidency. This module includes extensive background, review questions, critical thinking questions, a timeline, and links to resources and primary sources.