1916 REAGAN FAMILY
Youth To California Governor
Max Boot, author of Reagan: His Life and Legend, Part One: Boot’s initial hour examines Ronald Reagan’s formative years and political rise. It traces his Midwestern youth, alcoholic father Jack, mother Nelle’s religious optimism, lifeguarding on Rock River, Eureka College, and radio sports broadcasting. After entering Hollywood B-movies, he married Jane Wyman, led the Screen Actors Guild, and quietly informed for the FBI. Following his divorce, marriage to Nancy Davis, and General Electric lectures, Reagan delivered his 1964 Goldwater speech, launching his successful California governorship. (1)