Presidential Eras

[GLPman]

I agree with the comment about Wilson belonging in the Progressive Era. Overall, I think the list is quite solid. There are a few things I'd change:

1972-1980: Instead of the "Moderate Part II Era," this should probably be the "Weak Presidency Era." Nixon had just resigned, and Americans had lost faith in the Executive. Ford pardoned Nixon, too. Neither Ford nor Carter were powerful presidents and the low voter turnout in the 1976 election particularly emphasizes American's loss of credibility in the presidency. Carter's term was a downright disaster between the Oil Crisis and Operation Eagle Claw. Carter barely survived a primary challenge from Ted Kennedy and went on to be crushed by Ronald Reagan.

I would also create an era spanning from 1980-2001 called "The Great Leader Era." Clinton and Reagan were, for the most part, loved. Yes, H.W. Bush was defeated, but he was an excellent Commander-in-Chief during the Gulf War.

Finally, I would also create an era called "The Politics of Fear and Hope" Era, extending from 2001 to present day, which would specify the roles that fear of terrorism and hope for new leadership controlled the outcomes of the 2004 and 2008 elections and the presidencies of George Bush and Barack Obama.

[GLPman]

I agree with the comment about Wilson belonging in the Progressive Era. Overall, I think the list is quite solid. There are a few things I'd change:

1972-1980: Instead of the "Moderate Part II Era," this should probably be the "Weak Presidency Era." Nixon had just resigned, and Americans had lost faith in the Executive. Ford pardoned Nixon, too. Neither Ford nor Carter were powerful presidents and the low voter turnout in the 1976 election particularly emphasizes American's loss of credibility in the presidency. Carter's term was a downright disaster between the Oil Crisis and Operation Eagle Claw. Carter barely survived a primary challenge from Ted Kennedy and went on to be crushed by Ronald Reagan.

I would also create an era spanning from 1980-2001 called "The Great Leader Era." Clinton and Reagan were, for the most part, loved. Yes, H.W. Bush was defeated, but he was an excellent Commander-in-Chief during the Gulf War.

Finally, I would also create an era called "The Politics of Fear and Hope Era," extending from 2001 to present day, which would specify the roles that fear of terrorism and hope for new leadership and change controlled the outcomes of the 2004 and 2008 elections and the presidencies of George Bush and Barack Obama.