Customer Reviews

Reagan In His Own Voice

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My coeditors (Martin Anderson and Kiron Skinner) were thrilled when we heard this production. Reagan's voice from the original recordings is strong and clear; the narrator tells the listener what's happening in the world to which Reagan speaks between 1975 and 1979 as he runs for the presidency, talking about foreign policy, domestic policy, and personal matters. The three of us and George Shultz, Nancy Reagan, Ed Meese, Peter Hannaford, Mike Deaver, Richard Allen, William Clark, and Harry O'Conner comment on the times and Reagan's views and how they will come to affect his presidency. The CD has facsimiles of 18 of the documents Reagan himself wrote (38 pages altogether).
The texts of some of these documents are in Reagan In His Own Hand; others are in Stories in His Own Hand (a shorter, more personal book, with many photographs).
We talk about a fast-moving who-done-it as a "good read"; I call this a "good listen", far more compelling than I expected it to be.
Reagan wrote; he recorded; it got distributed (syndicated around the country to hundreds of stations); and "poof!" it disappeared. But it didn't. Here they are, as he actually delivered them. An historical and American treasure.
Annelise Anderson

As I write this, the news has come through of Ronald Reagan's sad passsing at age 93. It marked an appropriate occasion for me to listen to this set for the first time that had been given me as a gift.

This is by far a precious historical legacy. In Ronald Reagan's own voice, delivering radio commentaries from 1975-79, we gain a better understanding of why he became President in 1980, and our greatest president of the last half-century. Students of recent political history should listen to these to really understand the measure of Reagan's convictions, and his plain-spoken, amiable personality that enabled him to connect with the American people in a way no other President of the last 60 years has done before or since.

Godspeed, Mr. President, and thank you for what you gave to our country and to the world as well.

Simply a superb human being in spite of his shortcomings. The country needed him in 1980 and still does. Reagan was a man with a combination of wisdom, charisma, and he was intelligent and well read too; Qualities that are lacking in the leaders of today. You will be inspired all over again when you listen to this recording.

I was too young to Remember Reagan prior to his Presidency and was therefore surprised to learn that he was a fixture on radio during the mid to late 1970s. It's going to be hard for historians to peddle the notion that he was a dunce after sifting through his writings on all of these far-ranging subjects. The media darling Clinton certainly couldn't focus long enough to present so many arguments so clearly and for such a long time.

The book of these 3 minute radio pieces is fascinating, but it can't compare to the great man reading the entries himself. Reagan can be serious and humorous, but he never loses his optimism. He brought to America a different kind of politics. He could lay out serious problems facing the country and yet positive changes that could make us a better nation. It allows his commentaries to be serious without the whining associated with so many out-of-power politicians.

Many of the policy decisions he would later make are included here, but some of the most interesting entries are on government operations you don't think about.

A good example is Reagan explaining the monopoly of the postal system with such precision that it is amazing that the system lasted throughout his eight years. Reagan tells of how small companies learned better ways to transport first class mail locally and were shutdown for doing so. He then compares the postal rates to long distance phone rates and how you could once send a 100 letters for the price of a long distance call, whereas by the 1970s you could only send three. Of course, nowadays you could read a ten page letter cheaper than sending it, only further proving his point. Reagan ends by reminding listeners that although a real monopoly exists in the Post Office and the inefficiency therein causes rising prices and reduced services, the government is chasing down ATT as a monopoly although they have outperformed the government in every way. Reagan proves, in essence, that the only monopoly that wins is the one at a point of a gun.

In addition to the Reagan entries, the set has a nice commentary by Reagan associates and the editors of the series. It's well produced and no less than fine entertaining history.

This product is simply amazing. Ronald Regan was one of the best Presidents this country has ever had. These recordings are amazing. Many of the issues that he addressed in his radio announcements are still relevant to today! Decades later!!!

This should silence the "nay sayers" about Regan's abilities and opinions. All these announcements were written by Regan himself between his term of Governor of CA and President. He clearly laid out his plan of defeating communism. It is amazing to hear how a "true" conservative thinks.

Each section is set up and reviewed so that you know the actual context in which Regan was speaking.

It was a true pleasure to hear Regan's views on Government, Freedom of Speech, and faith in the American people.

This series is a must for anyone who doesn't understand what it means to be a conservative. I just wish our current President (George W) would listen and practice Regan's example of what it means to be a conservative.

Ronald Regan knew how the world works, and the role the US Government should play in the lives not only US Citizens, but to the entire world.

I doesn't really matter if you're a dem or a rep, this is a voice that can speak to you if you're an american.

He was the greatest president of my lifetime.

First rate audio. First rate documentary. First rate ideas.

I found myself consumed with this collection. I listened to the entire 5-CD set in one sitting. Though these commentaries took place in the 1970s, the wisdom contained within is timeless. You will find Reagan's words prophetic and very applicable to the 21st century. As you listen to these, keep in mind that Reagan personally wrote each of these commentaries. Outstanding collection!

To the previous Reviewer, I take such pleasure knowing that you are wrong and that President Reagan was right. Your retoric is as tired and crazy as you are.

All during this week, not only have I taken pride in remembering President Reagan and watching our country's farewell to a Great President, I have taken such pleasure knowing that the stomachs of the left are turning at the sight and spectacle of the outpouring of love for him. It has to burn you up to know that history will mark him as a truly great American.

At a time when Americans measured their misery on Jimmy Carter's Misery Index, Ronald Reagan came on the scene with a clear plan, firm convictions and faith in the American people to pull ourselves out of hard times. All government had to do was lower taxes and get out of the way. How right he was... Everyone that is NOT paying 70% or 80% income taxes today should be thanking Ronald Reagan. Everyone that is not living behind a wall in East Berlin or behind barbed wire in the Eastern Block should be thanking Ronald Reagan for bringing about such change. I am old enough to remember Reagans original radio broadcasts. I listened to him and remember thinking... wow, I wish this guy would run for President. Listening to this CD brings that feeling back. We were very lucky to have had him for our president. Thank you Ronald Reagan and God Bless America.

No matter what your political affiliation is, there is no denying Ronald Reagan was one of the greatest speakers and leaders of our time. The collection of audio commentaries by the 40th president of the United States is an everlasting testimomy to the personality and opinions which reached out and captivated a nation. After listening to his warm voice and sharp wit,it soon becomes apparent how he could almost effortlessly attract and win most people over with his words. The collection of commentaries contained in this CD, were recorded from his radio days prior to becoming president and provide insight into some of the issues and concerns of the American public during the 1970's. Its such a great collection, that his voice, thoughts and charisma remain with you long after listening to the CD.