Which political figure argued for more traditional understandings of liberty?

The argument for more traditional understandings of liberty is most closely associated with Ronald Reagan. Throughout his political career, Reagan strongly emphasized individual freedom, personal responsibility, and limited government intervention as core aspects of American liberty. His rhetorical style and policies often harkened back to a vision of liberty rooted in the Founding Fathers’ ideals, which focused on self-governance and the belief that government should enable rather than restrict individual pursuits.

Reagan's presidency was marked by a commitment to deregulation, tax cuts, and a reduction in the size of government, all aimed at enhancing personal freedoms and promoting economic growth as a fundamental expression of liberty. His approach framed traditional values and a return to foundational principles as essential for the prosperity and freedom of the individual and the nation as a whole.

In contrast, the other political figures mentioned did not emphasize this particular traditional view of liberty in the same way. John F. Kennedy, for instance, focused more on social welfare and civil rights, while Richard Nixon’s administration dealt with complex issues of governance and foreign policy, sometimes leading to more federal control. George McGovern was known for progressive social reforms that expanded the social safety net, which could be seen as more modern or progressive interpretations of liberty that include broader government involvement in