My fellow Americans, I'm pleased to tell you today that I've signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Reagan jokes about ending Russia with legislation and immediate bombing.
- In plain terms
- He makes a dark joke about ending Russia quickly.
- What can you take from it?
- Humor can mask serious nuclear tensions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What did this joke reveal about the era?
- How should we treat such humor?
Another view
The joke minimizes the gravity of nuclear conflict.
More from Ronald Reagan
We will always remember. We will always be proud. We will always be prepared, so we may always be free.
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