Changes

{{See also|movement conservative}}

{{See also|movement conservative}}

{{See also|Greatest Conservative Sports Stars}}

{{See also|Greatest Conservative Sports Stars}}

A '''conservative''' promotes [[moral]] and [[economic]] values beneficial to all. A desire to help others voluntarily, without compulsion, is a goal: "political conservatives are significantly more [[charity|charitable]] than [[liberals]]."<ref>https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0049089X21000752</ref> A conservative is often willing to learn and advocate the insights of the [[Bible]], and favors conserving value by not giving wasteful handouts to those who do not need them.  Conservatives are innovative, such as [[Romanticism]] and [[supply-side economics]]. '''''Conservative reasoning and values help overcome personal [[addiction]]s - for yourself, your family, your friends, and your neighbors'''''.

A '''conservative''' promotes [[moral]] and [[economic]] values beneficial to all. A desire to help others voluntarily, without compulsion, is a goal: "political conservatives are significantly more [[charity|charitable]] than [[liberals]]." <ref>https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0049089X21000752</ref> A conservative is often willing to learn and advocate the insights of the [[Bible]], and favors conserving value by not giving wasteful handouts to those who do not need them.  Conservatives are innovative, such as [[Romanticism]] and [[supply-side economics]]. '''''Conservative reasoning and values help overcome personal [[addiction]]s - for yourself, your family, your friends, and your neighbors'''''.

A conservative typically adheres to principles of personal [[responsibility]], moral values, and [[limited government]], agreeing with [[George Washington]]'s [[Farewell Address]] that "[[religion]] and [[morality]] are indispensable supports" to political prosperity.<ref>[http://usinfo.state.gov/usa/infousa/facts/democrac/49.htm United States Department of State] George Washington, farewell address, 1796</ref><ref>[[Merriam-Webster]]'s Online Dictionary has the following definition of conservative: "tending or disposed to maintain existing views, conditions, or institutions : TRADITIONAL"[http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/conservative]  Therefore, a conservative Christian would be one that tends to adhere to the morally sound doctrines of the early Christianity and [[Judeo-Christian]] values.</ref>  '''''Conservatives adopt principles that help themselves and others in healthy ways, including self-improvement'''''.

A conservative typically adheres to principles of personal [[responsibility]], moral values, and [[limited government]], agreeing with [[George Washington]]'s [[Farewell Address]] that "[[religion]] and [[morality]] are indispensable supports" to political prosperity .<ref>[http://usinfo.state.gov/usa/infousa/facts/democrac/49.htm United States Department of State] George Washington, farewell address, 1796</ref> <ref>[[Merriam-Webster]]'s Online Dictionary has the following definition of conservative: "tending or disposed to maintain existing views, conditions, or institutions : TRADITIONAL"[http://www.m-w.com/dictionary/conservative]  Therefore, a conservative Christian would be one that tends to adhere to the morally sound doctrines of the early Christianity and [[Judeo-Christian]] values.</ref>  '''''Conservatives adopt principles that help themselves and others in healthy ways, including self-improvement'''''.

[[Conservative populism]] and [[Religious conservatism and politics|religious conservatism]] promote [[social conservatism]].  '''''Conservatives reject [[political correctness]], [[liberal logic]], and [[liberal denial]]'''''.

[[Conservative populism]] and [[Religious conservatism and politics|religious conservatism]] promote [[social conservatism]].  '''''Conservatives reject [[political correctness]], [[liberal logic]], and [[liberal denial]]'''''.

[[Viktor Orban]], [[Hungary]]'s prime minister, put it this way: "The main division line is not according to ideologies, it’s deeper. It’s has an anthropological character. So on one side, in [[Europe]] and probably in [the [[U.S.]]] but in Europe definitely, there are groups of people who think that the most important thing in the world is their ego, themselves, me. … The other part of the society think that that’s not true. Because there are certain things that are more important in society than me, than my ego: family, nation, [[God]]."<ref>https://twitter.com/TuckerCarlson/status/1696643892253466712</ref>

[[Viktor Orban]], [[Hungary]]'s prime minister, put it this way: "The main division line is not according to ideologies, it’s deeper. It’s has an anthropological character. So on one side, in [[Europe]] and probably in [the [[U.S.]]] but in Europe definitely, there are groups of people who think that the most important thing in the world is their ego, themselves, me. … The other part of the society think that that’s not true. Because there are certain things that are more important in society than me, than my ego: family, nation, [[God]]." <ref>https://twitter.com/TuckerCarlson/status/1696643892253466712</ref>

   

   

[[Phil Crane]], the leading conservative congressman in the [[House]] from 1969 to 2005, urged people to make the world a better place than where they found it, and quoted frequently from the [[Bible]] in pursuit of that goal.<ref>http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-phil-crane-obituary-20141109-story.html</ref>

[[Phil Crane]], the leading conservative congressman in the [[House]] from 1969 to 2005, urged people to make the world a better place than where they found it, and quoted frequently from the [[Bible]] in pursuit of that goal .<ref>http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-phil-crane-obituary-20141109-story.html</ref>

Former President [[Ronald Reagan]] said, "The basis of conservatism is a desire for less government interference or less centralized authority or more individual freedom."<ref>http://www.reason.com/news/show/29318.html</ref>

Former President [[Ronald Reagan]] said, "The basis of conservatism is a desire for less government interference or less centralized authority or more individual freedom." <ref>http://www.reason.com/news/show/29318.html</ref>

[[File:460px-Calvin Coolidge photo portrait head and shoulders.jpg|200px|thumb|[[Calvin Coolidge]], the 30th President of the United States, was a conservative who said, "Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong."]]

[[File:460px-Calvin Coolidge photo portrait head and shoulders.jpg|200px|thumb|[[Calvin Coolidge]], the 30th President of the United States, was a conservative who said, "Don't expect to build up the weak by pulling down the strong."]]

* Opposition to [[big government]] and the [[Nanny State]]

* Opposition to [[big government]] and the [[Nanny State]]

* A strong national defense

* A strong national defense

* An [[Originalism|Originalist]] and [[Textualism|Textualist]] interpretation of the [[United States Constitution|Constitution]], and strongly oppose [[judicial activism]]

* An [[Originalism|Originalist]] and [[Textualism|Textualist]] interpretation of the [[United States Constitution|Constitution]], and strong opposition to [[judicial activism]]

* A dedication to the truth, and an ability to seek it

* A dedication to the truth, and an ability to seek it

* Ending [[entitlement]] programs

* Ending [[entitlement]] programs

===Hall of Fame===

===Hall of Fame===

Conservative scholar Clinton Rossiter<ref>Rossiter, "The Giants of American Conservatism," ''American Heritage'' 1955 6(6): 56-59, 94-96, online in [[EBSCO]]</ref> names [[Alexander Hamilton]], [[John Adams]], [[John Marshall]], [[Daniel Webster]], [[John C. Calhoun]], [[Elihu Root]], and [[Theodore Roosevelt]] to the "Conservative's Hall of Fame,"'' with John Adams as the greatest of American conservatives—a dubious choice since President Adams was an ardent opponent of [[free speech]] to criticize government.

Conservative scholar Clinton Rossiter <ref>Rossiter, "The Giants of American Conservatism," ''American Heritage'' 1955 6(6): 56-59, 94-96, online in [[EBSCO]]</ref> names [[Alexander Hamilton]], [[John Adams]], [[John Marshall]], [[Daniel Webster]], [[John C. Calhoun]], [[Elihu Root]], and [[Theodore Roosevelt]] to the "Conservative's Hall of Fame," with John Adams as the greatest of American conservatives—a dubious choice since President Adams was an ardent opponent of [[free speech]] to criticize government.

==U.S. voters==

==U.S. voters==

In America, most conservatives support the [[Republican Party]], but not exclusively so. In the 2008 election, 35% of the voters identified themselves as conservatives. Of them, 78% voted for [[John McCain]] and 20% for [[Barack Hussein Obama]], with the 20% accounting for Obama's margin of victory. Only 22% of the voters were liberal; they favored Obama 89%-10%. In the middle were 44% who called themselves moderates. They split for Obama by 60%-39%. (Minor candidates won 2% of the vote.)<ref>See [https://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/results/polls/#USP00p1 Presidential 2008 Exit Poll]</ref>

In America, most conservatives support the [[Republican Party]], but not exclusively so. In the 2008 election, 35% of the voters identified themselves as conservatives. Of them, 78% voted for [[John McCain]] and 20% for [[Barack Hussein Obama]], with the 20% accounting for Obama's margin of victory. Only 22% of the voters were liberal; they favored Obama 89%-10%. In the middle were 44% who called themselves moderates. They split for Obama by 60%-39%. (Minor candidates won 2% of the vote.) <ref>See [https://www.cnn.com/ELECTION/2008/results/polls/#USP00p1 Presidential 2008 Exit Poll]</ref>

[[File:Russell Kirk.jpg|thumbnail|300px|[[Russell Kirk]] was an American political theorist, conservative intellectual, historian of ideas, social critic, and man of letters, who is best known for his role in the American conservative movement. ]]

[[File:Russell Kirk.jpg|thumbnail|300px|[[Russell Kirk]] was an American political theorist, conservative intellectual, historian of ideas, social critic, and man of letters, who is best known for his role in the American conservative movement. ]]

Conservatives generally understand liberals better than liberals understand conservatives.<ref>[https://theindependentwhig.com/haidt-passages/haidt/conservatives-understand-liberals-better-than-liberals-understand-conservatives/ Haidt: Conservatives Understand Liberals Better Than Liberals Understand Conservatives]. ''The Independent Whig''. Retrieved November 13, 2019.</ref>

Conservatives generally understand liberals better than liberals understand conservatives .<ref>[https://theindependentwhig.com/haidt-passages/haidt/conservatives-understand-liberals-better-than-liberals-understand-conservatives/ Haidt: Conservatives Understand Liberals Better Than Liberals Understand Conservatives]. ''The Independent Whig''. Retrieved November 13, 2019.</ref>

===Religious differences between political conservatives and political liberals===

===Religious differences between political conservatives and political liberals===

The Barna poll conducted in November 2008 shows significant differences between the 32% of Americans who called themselves as “mostly conservative” on social and political matters; and the 17% who called themselves “mostly liberal” on social and political matters. The others—50%--were moderates with positions somewhere in between.<ref>See [http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/13-culture/258-survey-shows-how-liberals-and-conservatives-differ-on-matters-of-faith on line results]</ref>

The Barna poll conducted in November 2008 shows significant differences between the 32% of Americans who called themselves “mostly conservative” on social and political matters and the 17% who called themselves “mostly liberal” on social and political matters. The others—50%—were moderates with positions somewhere in between .<ref>See [http://www.barna.org/barna-update/article/13-culture/258-survey-shows-how-liberals-and-conservatives-differ-on-matters-of-faith on line results]</ref>

Some findings:  

Some findings:  

[Note: "Liberal" and "conservative" in this survey are based on politics]

[Note: "Liberal" and "conservative" in this survey are based on politics]

Liberals are also far less likely than conservatives to strongly believe each of the following:

Liberals are also far less likely than conservatives to strongly believe each of the following:*their religious faith is very important in their life (54% of liberals vs. 82% of conservatives);

*their religious faith is very important in their life (54% of liberals vs. 82% of conservatives);  

*a person cannot earn their way into [[Heaven]] by doing good deeds or being a good person (23% vs. 37%);

*a person cannot earn their way into [[Heaven]] by doing good deeds or being a good person (23% vs. 37%);  

*their faith is becoming an increasingly important moral guide in their life (38% vs. 70%);

*their faith is becoming an increasingly important moral guide in their life (38% vs. 70%);  

*the church they currently attend is very important in helping them find direction and fulfillment in life (37% vs. 62%);

*the church they currently attend is very important in helping them find direction and fulfillment in life (37% vs. 62%);  

*their primary purpose in life is to love God with all their heart, mind, strength and soul (43% vs. 76%);

*their primary purpose in life is to love God with all their heart, mind, strength and soul (43% vs. 76%);  

political conservatives were more likely than liberals to:

political conservatives were more likely than liberals to:

*read the Bible, other than at church events, during the past week (57% vs. 33%, respectively)  

*read the Bible, other than at church events, during the past week (57% vs. 33%, respectively)

*attend a religious service during the past week (62% vs. 35%)  

*attend a religious service during the past week (62% vs. 35%)

*[[pray]] to God, other than at a religious service, during the past week (91% vs. 76%)  

*[[pray]] to God, other than at a religious service, during the past week (91% vs. 76%)

*share their religious beliefs with others, during the past year (56% vs. 39%, among the born again Christians interviewed from each segment)  

*share their religious beliefs with others, during the past year (56% vs. 39%, among the born again Christians interviewed from each segment)

*have ever participated in a short-term missions trip, either within the U.S. or in another country (12% vs. 6%)  

*have ever participated in a short-term missions trip, either within the U.S. or in another country (12% vs. 6%)

*2% of conservatives and 11% of liberals were [[Atheism|atheist]] or [[agnostic]]  

*2% of conservatives and 11% of liberals were [[Atheism|atheist]] or [[agnostic]]

*15% of conservatives and 2% of liberals were [[Evangelical Christians|Christian evangelicals]]  

*15% of conservatives and 2% of liberals were [[Evangelical Christians|Christian evangelicals]]

*conservatives were twice as likely as liberals to be categorized as [[born again]], based on their theological views about salvation (63% vs. 32%)  

*conservatives were twice as likely as liberals to be categorized as [[born again]], based on their theological views about salvation (63% vs. 32%)

*21% of conservatives were associated with the [[Roman Catholic Church]], compared to 30% among the liberals.

*21% of conservatives were associated with the [[Roman Catholic Church]], compared to 30% among the liberals.

=== Conservative news ===

=== Conservative news ===

{{See also|Conservative news websites}}

{{See also|Conservative news websites}}

Some of the more notable news organizations which tend to be more conservative are [[WorldNetDaily]] and [[NewsMax]]. [[Fox News]], though often called conservative, tends to be more [[neoconservative]] than conservative.

Some of the more notable news organizations which tend to be more conservative are [[WorldNetDaily]] and [[NewsMax]]. [[Fox News]], though often called conservative, tends to be more [[neoconservative]] than conservative.

=== Conservative magazines and blogs ===

=== Conservative magazines and blogs ===

# A preference for freedom of opportunity over equality of result.

# A preference for freedom of opportunity over equality of result.

# [[Patriotism]], [[nationalism]], and support of a strong defense.

# [[Patriotism]], [[nationalism]], and support of a strong defense.

# Support of the institution of [[marriage]].  

# Support of the institution of [[marriage]].

# Emphasis on social values, like [[prayer]] and [[pro-life]] principles.

# Emphasis on social values, like [[prayer]] and [[pro-life]] principles.

== Paleoconservatives ==

== Paleoconservatives ==

[[Paleoconservatives]] are conservatives who are more focused on social issues and American [[sovereignty]] and are suspicious of both big government and big business, along with [[globalism]] and [[multiculturalism]]. They also lean against foreign interventionism. Neoconservatives criticize this with the pejorative term of "[[isolationism]]," as they believe in promoting [[democracy]] worldwide, even where different religious or value systems are incompatible with democracy-induced changes in control.

[[Paleoconservatives]] are conservatives who are more focused on social issues and American [[sovereignty]] and are suspicious of both big government and big business, along with [[globalism]] and [[multiculturalism]]. They also lean against foreign interventionism. Neoconservatives criticize this with the pejorative term "[[isolationism]]," as they believe in promoting [[democracy]] worldwide, even where different religious or value systems are incompatible with democracy-induced changes in control.

A notable paleoconservative was Democrat Congressman from Georgia, [[Larry McDonald]]. He was also second Chairman of the [[John Birch Society]], and President of Western Goals. McDonald was aboard [[Korean Airlines Flight 007]] when it was shot down by the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] near [[Moneron Island]] in 1983. Other paleoconservatives include [[Pat Buchanan]] and [[Tom Tancredo]].

A notable paleoconservative was Democrat Congressman from Georgia, [[Larry McDonald]]. He was also the second Chairman of the [[John Birch Society]], and President of Western Goals. McDonald was aboard [[Korean Airlines Flight 007]] when it was shot down by the [[Soviet Union|Soviets]] near [[Moneron Island]] in 1983. Other paleoconservatives include [[Pat Buchanan]] and [[Tom Tancredo]].

==Fiscal Conservatism vs. Social Conservatism==

== Fiscal Conservatism vs. Social Conservatism ==

''For further details on the two related philosophies, see [[Fiscal conservatism]] and [[Social conservatism]]''

''For further details on the two related philosophies, see [[Fiscal conservatism]] and [[Social conservatism]]''

Recently, a division has been created between fiscal conservatism and social conservatism. Fiscal conservatism centers around a low and [[Balanced budget|balanced]] government [[budget]], and generally is opposed to programs such as [[Social Security]] and [[Medicare]]. Its primary goal is to reduce government spending significantly. Social Conservatism, on the other hand, focuses on the moral issues of conservatism. A social conservative will oppose [[same-sex marriage]], [[abortion]], and the teaching of [[evolution]] in schools. The majority of Conservatives (including most of the [[Republican Party]]) fall into both categories, however some fall into one or the other, but not both. Notably, [[Libertarians]] are strong fiscal conservatives but are not socially conservative. For instance, the [[Libertarian Party]] Platform <ref>[http://www.lp.org/platform]</ref> expresses support for the fiscally conservative principles of ending publicly funded [[welfare]] and [[healthcare]] programs as well as reducing government spending overall significantly. However, it also expresses support for [[same-sex marriage]] (with some libertarians leaning towards the ultimate goal of total [[marriage privatization]]) as well as maintaining the legal status of abortion.  

Recently, a division has been created between fiscal conservatism and social conservatism. Fiscal conservatism centers around a low and [[Balanced budget|balanced]] government [[budget]], and generally is opposed to programs such as [[Social Security]] and [[Medicare]]. Its primary goal is to reduce government spending significantly. Social Conservatism, on the other hand, focuses on the moral issues of conservatism. A social conservative will oppose [[same-sex marriage]], [[abortion]], and the teaching of [[evolution]] in schools. The majority of conservatives (including most of the [[Republican Party]]) fall into both categories; however, some fall into one or the other, but not both. Notably, [[Libertarians]] are strong fiscal conservatives but are not socially conservative. For instance, the [[Libertarian Party]] Platform <ref>[http://www.lp.org/platform]</ref> expresses support for the fiscally conservative principles of ending publicly funded [[welfare]] and [[healthcare]] programs as well as reducing government spending overall significantly. However, it also expresses support for [[same-sex marriage]] (with some libertarians leaning towards the ultimate goal of total [[marriage privatization]]) as well as maintaining the legal status of abortion.

Some Republicans and [[Democrat Party|Democrats]] also fit one category but not the other. Former [[New Mexico]] governor [[Gary Johnson]], who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination in 2012, was deemed "the most fiscally conservative governor" while he was in office (and probably earned that honor given all the spending cuts he made) but at the same time, he supports [[marriage privatization]] and [[abortion]] (though he believes ''[[Roe v. Wade]]'' should be overturned on Constitutional grounds). Also, several Democrats have expressed opposition to same-sex marriage and/or abortion, but still support liberal fiscal programs such as Social Security. They would be the opposite of Johnson - socially conservative but fiscally liberal.

Some Republicans and [[Democrat Party|Democrats]] also fit one category but not the other. Former [[New Mexico]] governor [[Gary Johnson]], who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination in 2012, was deemed "the most fiscally conservative governor" while he was in office (and probably earned that honor given all the spending cuts he made) but at the same time, he supports [[marriage privatization]] and [[abortion]] (though he believes ''[[Roe v. Wade]]'' should be overturned on Constitutional grounds). Also, several Democrats have expressed opposition to same-sex marriage and/or abortion, but still support liberal fiscal programs such as Social Security. They would be the opposite of Johnson - socially conservative but fiscally liberal.

== Personal conservatism ==

== Personal conservatism ==

Because Conservatives often have strong political views, there can be a tendency to see conservatism as a purely political ideology. However, there is also a strong personal side to conservatism - being a conservative is as much about applying conservative values to one's everyday life as it is about campaigning and voting for conservative candidates. In general, conservatives can be characterized by a strong sense of personal [[morality]], a willingness to observe their culture's traditions and customs, and a desire to be respectable and to show due respect to other members of the community.

Because conservatives often have strong political views, there can be a tendency to see conservatism as a purely political ideology. However, there is also a strong personal side to conservatism - being a conservative is as much about applying conservative values to one's everyday life as it is about campaigning and voting for conservative candidates. In general, conservatives can be characterized by a strong sense of personal [[morality]], a willingness to observe their culture's traditions and customs, and a desire to be respectable and to show due respect to other members of the community.

One school of thought on both the left and right is that conservativism raises stubbornness and [[ignorance]] to the level of [[virtue]]s; however modern conservativism is based upon [[New Testament]] teaching that says, "The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, joints and marrow,  and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."<ref>Hebrews 4:12</ref>

One school of thought on both the left and right is that conservatism raises stubbornness and [[ignorance]] to the level of [[virtue]]s; however, modern conservatism is based upon [[New Testament]] teaching that says, "The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, joints and marrow,  and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."<ref>Hebrews 4:12</ref>

==History of American conservatism==

== History of American conservatism ==

===Textbook problems===

=== Textbook problems ===

{{See also|Textbook bias}}

{{See also|Textbook bias}}

College-level teaching about conservatism has been distorted by a "liberal state paradigm"—that is, [[textbook]]s usually interpret recent American history in terms of the origins and successes of political liberalism—especially the [[New Deal]], the [[welfare state]], [[labor union]]s, and [[Civil Rights Movement|Civil Rights]] for blacks and [[equality]] for women. Conservative politics is usually defined as a reaction: as a [[free market]] reply to the growth of [[big government]]; as an expression of outrage against declining support for tradition and Christian morality. Where the violent Wobblies ([[Industrial Workers of the World|IWW]]) and illegal sit down strikes of the 1930s are seen as heroic, exposing [[Communist]] subversion by [[Joe McCarthy]] is denounced as the nadir of political morality.<ref>See Leonard Moore, "Approaching Conservatism," ''OAH Magazine of History,'' 17 (January 2003) [http://www.oah.org/pubs/magazine/conservatism/moore.html online edition]</ref>

College-level teaching about conservatism has been distorted by a "liberal state paradigm"—that is, [[textbook]]s usually interpret recent American history in terms of the origins and successes of political liberalism—especially the [[New Deal]], the [[welfare state]], [[labor union]]s, and [[Civil Rights Movement|Civil Rights]] for blacks and [[equality]] for women. Conservative politics is usually defined as a reaction: as a [[free market]] reply to the growth of [[big government]]; as an expression of outrage against declining support for tradition and Christian morality. Where the violent Wobblies ([[Industrial Workers of the World|IWW]]) and illegal sit down strikes of the 1930s are seen as heroic, exposing [[Communist]] subversion by [[Joe McCarthy]] is denounced as the nadir of political morality.<ref>See Leonard Moore, "Approaching Conservatism," ''OAH Magazine of History,'' 17 (January 2003) [http://www.oah.org/pubs/magazine/conservatism/moore.html online edition]</ref>

===Loyalists===

=== Loyalists ===

The [[Loyalists]] of the [[American Revolution]] were mostly political conservatives, some of whom produced political discourse of a high order, including lawyer [[Joseph Galloway]] and governor-historian [[Thomas Hutchinson]]. However, when the crisis came, they stood with the Crown as it tried to destroy American political liberties. After the war, the great majority remained in the U.S. and became citizens, but some leaders emigrated to other places in the British Empire. [[Samuel Seabury]] was a Loyalist who stayed and as the first American bishop played a major role in shaping the [[Episcopal]] religion, a stronghold of conservative social values. While the Loyalist political tradition died out totally in the U.S., it survives in Canadian conservatism.

The [[Loyalists]] of the [[American Revolution]] were mostly political conservatives, some of whom produced political discourse of a high order, including lawyer [[Joseph Galloway]] and governor-historian [[Thomas Hutchinson]]. However, when the crisis came, they stood with the Crown as it tried to destroy American political liberties. After the war, the great majority remained in the U.S. and became citizens, but some leaders emigrated to other places in the British Empire. [[Samuel Seabury]] was a Loyalist who stayed and as the first American bishop played a major role in shaping the [[Episcopal]] religion, a stronghold of conservative social values. While the Loyalist political tradition died out totally in the U.S., it survives in Canadian conservatism.

===Founding Fathers===

=== Founding Fathers ===

The [[Founding Fathers]] created the single most important set of political ideas in American history, known as [[Republicanism]], which all groups, liberal and conservative alike, have drawn from. Two parties were named "Republican"—the one founded in 1794 by [[Thomas Jefferson]] and [[James Madison]] (it disappeared in the 1820s), and the modern GOP founded in 1854.  

The [[Founding Fathers]] created the single most important set of political ideas in American history, known as [[Republicanism]], which all groups, liberal and conservative alike, have drawn from. Two parties were named "Republican"—the one founded in 1794 by [[Thomas Jefferson]] and [[James Madison]] (it disappeared in the 1820s), and the modern GOP founded in 1854.During the [[First Party System]] (1790s–1820s) the [[Federalist Party]], led by [[Alexander Hamilton]], developed an important variation of republicanism that can be considered conservative. Rejecting [[monarchy]] and [[aristocracy]], they emphasized civic virtue as the core American value. The Federalists spoke for the propertied interests and the upper classes of the cities. They envisioned a modernizing land of banks and factories, with a strong army and navy. [[George Washington]] was their great hero.

On many issues, American conservatism also derives from the republicanism of [[Thomas Jefferson]] and his followers, especially [[John Randolph of Roanoke]] and his "Old Republicans" or "[[Quids]]." They idealized the [[yeoman]] farmer as the epitome of civic virtue, and warned that banking and industry led to [[corruption]], that is to the illegitimate use of government power for private ends. Jefferson himself was a vehement opponent of what today is called [[judicial activism]].

 

On many issues, American conservatism also derives from the republicanism of [[Thomas Jefferson]] and his followers, especially [[John Randolph of Roanoke]] and his "Old Republicans" or "[[Quids]]." They idealized the [[yeoman]] farmer as the epitome of civic virtue, and warned that banking and industry led to [[corruption]], that is to the illegitimate use of government power for private ends. Jefferson himself was a vehement opponent of what today is called [[judicial activism]].

<ref>[http://etext.virginia.edu/jefferson/quotations/jeff1030.htm]</ref> The Jeffersonians stressed small government.

<ref>[http://etext.virginia.edu/jefferson/quotations/jeff1030.htm]</ref> The Jeffersonians stressed small government.

===Ante-Bellum: Calhoun and Webster===

===Ante-Bellum: Calhoun and Webster===

During the [[Second Party System]] (1830–54) the [[Whig Party]] attracted most conservatives, such as [[Daniel Webster]] of New England. [[Daniel Webster]] and other leaders of the [[Whig Party]], called it the conservative party in the late 1830s.<ref>The word was originally used in the [[French Revolution]]. The British used it after 1839 to describe a major party. The first American usage is by Whigs who called themselves "Conservatives" in the late 1830s. Hans Sperber and Travis Trittschuh, ''American Political terms: An Historical Dictionary'' (1962) 94-97.</ref>   [[John C. Calhoun]], a Democrat, articulated a sophisticated conservatism in his writings. [[Richard Hofstadter]] (1948) called him "The [[Karl Marx|Marx]] of the Master Class." Calhoun argued that a conservative minority should be able to limit the power of a "majority dictatorship" because tradition represents the wisdom of past generations. (This argument echoes one made by [[Edmund Burke]], the founder of British conservatism, in ''Reflections on the Revolution in France'' (1790)). Calhoun is considered the father of the idea of minority rights, a position adopted by liberals in the 1960s in dealing with [[Civil Rights]].

During the [[Second Party System]] (1830–54) the [[Whig Party]] attracted most conservatives, such as [[Daniel Webster]] of New England. [[Daniel Webster]] and other leaders of the [[Whig Party]] called it the conservative party in the late 1830s .<ref>The word was originally used in the [[French Revolution]]. The British used it after 1839 to describe a major party. The first American usage is by Whigs who called themselves "Conservatives" in the late 1830s. Hans Sperber and Travis Trittschuh, ''American Political terms: An Historical Dictionary'' (1962) 94-97.</ref> [[John C. Calhoun]], a Democrat, articulated a sophisticated conservatism in his writings. [[Richard Hofstadter]] (1948) called him "The [[Karl Marx|Marx]] of the Master Class." Calhoun argued that a conservative minority should be able to limit the power of a "majority dictatorship" because tradition represents the wisdom of past generations. (This argument echoes one made by [[Edmund Burke]], the founder of British conservatism, in ''Reflections on the Revolution in France'' (1790)). Calhoun is considered the father of the idea of minority rights, a position adopted by liberals in the 1960s in dealing with [[Civil Rights]].

The conservatism of the antebellum period is contested territory; conservatives of the 21st century disagree over what comprises their heritage. Thus [[William J. Bennett]] (2006), a prominent neoconservative leader, warns conservatives to NOT honor Calhoun, [[Know nothing party|Know-Nothings]], [[Copperheads (politics)|Copperheads]] and 20th century [[isolationist]]s. Other conservatives disagree with Bennett.

The conservatism of the antebellum period is contested territory; conservatives of the 21st century disagree over what comprises their heritage. Thus [[William J. Bennett]] (2006), a prominent neoconservative leader, warns conservatives to not honor Calhoun, [[Know nothing party|Know-Nothings]], [[Copperheads (politics)|Copperheads]] and 20th century [[isolationist]]s. Other conservatives disagree with Bennett.

===Lincoln to Cleveland===

===Lincoln to Cleveland===

The 1896 presidential election was the first with a conservative versus liberal theme in the way in which these terms are now understood. Republican [[William McKinley]] won using the pro-business slogan "[[sound money]] and protection," while Bryan's anti-bank populism had a lasting effect on economic policies of the Democrat Party.

The 1896 presidential election was the first with a conservative versus liberal theme in the way in which these terms are now understood. Republican [[William McKinley]] won using the pro-business slogan "[[sound money]] and protection," while Bryan's anti-bank populism had a lasting effect on economic policies of the Democrat Party.

[[William Graham Sumner]], [[Yale University|Yale]] professor (1872–1910) and polymath, vigorously promoted a libertarian conservative ethic. After dallying with [[Social Darwinism]] under the influence of [[Herbert Spencer]], he rejected [[evolution]] in his later works, and strongly opposed imperialism. He opposed monopoly and [[paternalism]] in theory as a threat to equality, democracy and middle class values, but was vague on what to do about it.<ref>Curtis, Bruce. "William Graham Sumner 'On the Concentration of Wealth.'" Journal of American History 1969 55(4): 823-832.</ref>

[[William Graham Sumner]], [[Yale University|Yale]] professor (1872–1910) and polymath, vigorously promoted a libertarian conservative ethic. After dallying with [[Social Darwinism]] under the influence of [[Herbert Spencer]], he rejected [[evolution]] in his later works, and strongly opposed imperialism. He opposed monopoly and [[paternalism]] in theory as a threat to equality, democracy and middle class values, but was vague on what to do about it .<ref>Curtis, Bruce. "William Graham Sumner 'On the Concentration of Wealth.'" Journal of American History 1969 55(4): 823-832.</ref>

===Early 20th century===

===Early 20th century===

Pro-business Republicans returned to dominance in 1920 with the election of President [[Warren G. Harding]]. The presidency of [[Calvin Coolidge]] (1923–29) was a high water mark for conservatism, both politically and intellectually. Classic writing of the period includes ''Democracy and Leadership'' (1924) by Irving Babbitt and [[H.L. Mencken]]'s magazine ''American Mercury'' (1924–33). The [[Efficiency Movement]] attracted many conservatives such as [[Herbert Hoover]] with its pro-business, pro-engineer approach to solving social and economic problems. In the 1920s many American conservatives generally maintained anti-foreign attitudes and, as usual, were disinclined toward changes to the healthy economic climate of the age.  

Pro-business Republicans returned to dominance in 1920 with the election of President [[Warren G. Harding]]. The presidency of [[Calvin Coolidge]] (1923–29) was a high water mark for conservatism, both politically and intellectually. Classic writing of the period includes ''Democracy and Leadership'' (1924) by Irving Babbitt and [[H.L. Mencken]]'s magazine ''American Mercury'' (1924–33). The [[Efficiency Movement]] attracted many conservatives such as [[Herbert Hoover]] with its pro-business, pro-engineer approach to solving social and economic problems. In the 1920s many American conservatives generally maintained anti-foreign attitudes and, as usual, were disinclined toward changes to the healthy economic climate of the age.  

During the [[Great Depression]], other conservatives participated in the taxpayers' revolt at the local level. From 1930 to 1933, Americans formed as many as 3,000 taxpayers' leagues to protest high [[property tax]]es. These groups endorsed measures to limit and roll back taxes, lowered penalties on tax delinquents, and cuts in government spending. A few also called for illegal resistance (or tax strikes). The best known of these was led by the Association of Real Estate Taxpayers in [[Chicago]] which, at its height, had 30,000 dues-paying members.   

During the [[Great Depression]], other conservatives participated in the taxpayers' revolt at the local level. From 1930 to 1933, Americans formed as many as 3,000 taxpayers' leagues to protest high [[property tax]]es. These groups endorsed measures to limit and roll back taxes, lowered penalties on tax delinquents, and cut government spending. A few also called for illegal resistance (or tax strikes). The best known of these was led by the Association of Real Estate Taxpayers in [[Chicago]] which, at its height, had 30,000 dues-paying members.   

An important intellectual movement, calling itself [[Southern Agrarians]] and based in Nashville, brought together like-minded novelists, poets and historians who argued that modern values undermined the traditions of American [[Republicanism]] and civic virtue.  

An important intellectual movement, calling itself [[Southern Agrarians]] and based in Nashville, brought together like-minded novelists, poets and historians who argued that modern values undermined the traditions of American [[Republicanism]] and civic virtue.  

The Depression brought [[liberal]]s to power under President [[Franklin D. Roosevelt]] (1933). Indeed, the term "liberal" now came to mean a supporter of the [[New Deal]] and Roosevelt's powerful [[New Deal Coalition]]. In 1934 [[Al Smith]] and pro-business Democrats formed the [[American Liberty League]] to fight the new liberalism, but failed to stop Roosevelt's shifting the Democrat Party to the left. In 1936 the Republicans rejected Hoover and tried the more liberal [[Alf Landon]], who carried only [[Maine]] and [[Vermont]]. When Roosevelt tried to pack the Supreme Court in 1937 the conservatives finally cooperated across party lines and defeated it with help from Vice President [[John Nance Garner]]. Roosevelt unsuccessfully tried to purge the conservative Democrats in the 1938 election. The conservatives in Congress then formed a bipartisan informal [[Conservative Coalition]] of Republicans and southern Democrats. It largely controlled Congress from 1937 to 1964. Its most prominent leaders were Senator [[Robert Taft]], a Republican of [[Ohio]], and Senator [[Richard Russell]], Democrat of [[Georgia]].

The Depression brought [[liberal]]s to power under President [[Franklin D. Roosevelt]] (1933). Indeed, the term "liberal" now came to mean a supporter of the [[New Deal]] and Roosevelt's powerful [[New Deal Coalition]]. In 1934 [[Al Smith]] and pro-business Democrats formed the [[American Liberty League]] to fight the new liberalism, but failed to stop Roosevelt's shifting the Democrat Party to the left. In 1936 the Republicans rejected Hoover and tried the more liberal [[Alf Landon]], who carried only [[Maine]] and [[Vermont]]. When Roosevelt tried to pack the Supreme Court in 1937 the conservatives finally cooperated across party lines and defeated it with help from Vice President [[John Nance Garner]]. Roosevelt unsuccessfully tried to purge the conservative Democrats in the 1938 election. The conservatives in Congress then formed a bipartisan informal [[Conservative Coalition]] of Republicans and southern Democrats. It largely controlled Congress from 1937 to 1964. Its most prominent leaders were Senator [[Robert Taft]], a Republican of [[Ohio]], and Senator [[Richard Russell]], Democrat of [[Georgia]].

In the United States, the [[Old Right]], also called the Old Guard, was a group of [[libertarianism|libertarian]], free-market anti-interventionists, originally associated with Midwestern Republicans and Southern Democrats. The Republicans (but not the southern Democrats) were [[isolationist]]s in 1939–41, (see [[America First]]), and later opposed [[NATO]] and U.S. military intervention in the [[Korean War]].

In the United States, the [[Old Right]], also called the Old Guard, was a group of [[libertarianism|libertarian]], free-market anti-interventionists, originally associated with Midwestern Republicans and Southern Democrats. The Republicans (but not the southern Democrats) were [[isolationist]]s in 1939–41 (see [[America First]]), and later opposed [[NATO]] and U.S. military intervention in the [[Korean War]].

===Later 20th century: Goldwater and Buckley ===

===Later 20th century: Goldwater and Buckley ===

By 1950, [[American liberalism]] was so dominant in academia and journalism that liberal critic [[Lionel Trilling]] dismissed contemporary conservatism and anti-communism as "irritable mental gestures which seek to resemble ideas." <ref>Lapham 2004</ref> But just as Trilling was writing a revival was underway. In the 1950s, principles for a conservative political movement were hashed out in books like [[Russell Kirk]]'s ''The Conservative Mind'' (1953) and in the highly influential new magazine ''[[National Review]]'', founded by [[William F. Buckley]] in 1955.

By 1950, [[American liberalism]] was so dominant in academia and journalism that liberal critic [[Lionel Trilling]] dismissed contemporary conservatism and anti-communism as "irritable mental gestures which seek to resemble ideas." <ref>Lapham 2004</ref> But just as Trilling was writing, a revival was underway. In the 1950s, principles for a conservative political movement were hashed out in books like [[Russell Kirk]]'s ''The Conservative Mind'' (1953) and in the highly influential new magazine ''[[National Review]]'', founded by [[William F. Buckley]] in 1955.

 

Whereas Taft's [[Old Right]] had been [[isolationist]] the new conservatism favored American intervention overseas to oppose [[Communism]]. It looked to the [[Founding Fathers]] for historical inspiration as opposed to [[John C. Calhoun|Calhoun]] and the antebellum South.

The success of the [[Civil Rights movement]] came in the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the [[bi-partisan]] [[Civil Rights Act of 1964]] and the [[Voting Rights Act]] of 1965. Conservatives supported all, but [[Barry Goldwater]] bucked party leadership to win a few Southern states for the first time since Reconstruction.  Until then southern whites (both liberal and conservative) had been locked into the Democrat Party. That lock was now broken and some southern conservatives voted for Goldwater for president in 1964.  In 1968, southern Democrats ran their own candidate against Richard Nixon. The southern blacks now began to vote in large numbers, and buoyed by [[Great Society]] [[entitlement]]s became Democrats, moving that party in the south to the left. In 1972 fully one third of all Democrats joined Richard Nixon's Silent Majority coalition against the far left progressive Democrats. Democrats shifted their strategy to nominating Southerners for president, Jimmy Carter in 1976, Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996, and Al Gore in 2000. As the South became less racist, it became more Republican. By 2000, for the first time, all southern states had a conservative GOP and a liberal Democrat Party.  The region split in both federal and state contests.  In 2008 the [[Barack Hussein Obama|Obama]] campaign rebuilt the Clinton coalition in [[Florida]], [[Virginia]] and [[North Carolina]].  

Whereas Taft's [[Old Right]] had been [[isolationist]] the new conservatism favored American intervention overseas to oppose [[Communism]]. It looked to the [[Founding Fathers]] for historical inspiration as opposed to [[John C. Calhoun|Calhoun]] and the antebellum South.The success of the [[Civil Rights movement]] came in the Civil Rights Act of 1957, the [[bi-partisan]] [[Civil Rights Act of 1964]] and the [[Voting Rights Act]] of 1965. Conservatives supported all, but [[Barry Goldwater]] bucked party leadership to win a few Southern states for the first time since Reconstruction.  Until then Southern whites (both liberal and conservative) had been locked into the Democratic Party. That lock was now broken and some Southern conservatives voted for Goldwater for president in 1964.  In 1968, Southern Democrats ran their own candidate against Richard Nixon. The Southern blacks now began to vote in large numbers, and buoyed by [[Great Society]] [[entitlement]]s became Democrats, moving that party in the South to the left. In 1972, fully one-third of all Democrats joined Richard Nixon's Silent Majority coalition against the far left progressive Democrats. Democrats shifted their strategy to nominating Southerners for president, Jimmy Carter in 1976, Bill Clinton in 1992 and 1996, and Al Gore in 2000. As the South became less racist, it became more Republican. By 2000, for the first time, all Southern states had a conservative GOP and a liberal Democratic Party.  The region split in both federal and state contests.  In 2008 the [[Barack Hussein Obama|Obama]] campaign rebuilt the Clinton coalition in [[Florida]], [[Virginia]] and [[North Carolina]].  

Goldwater, a charismatic figure whose intense opposition to all [[New Deal]] programs angered liberals, was defeated in a landslide in 1964. Goldwater faded and his supporters regrouped under new leadership, especially that of [[Ronald Reagan]] in [[California]], and regained strength nationally in the 1966 elections. Conservatives voted for [[Richard Nixon]] in 1968, who narrowly defeated the New Deal champion [[Hubert Humphrey]], and southern demagogue [[George Wallace]]. Nixon had come to terms with both the Goldwater wing of the party and the still-influential Rockefeller Republicans (Republicans from the [[Northeast]] who supported many New Deal programs).

Goldwater, a charismatic figure whose intense opposition to all [[New Deal]] programs angered liberals, was defeated in a landslide in 1964. Goldwater faded and his supporters regrouped under new leadership, especially that of [[Ronald Reagan]] in [[California]], and regained strength nationally in the 1966 elections. Conservatives voted for [[Richard Nixon]] in 1968, who narrowly defeated the New Deal champion [[Hubert Humphrey]], and southern demagogue [[George Wallace]]. Nixon had come to terms with both the Goldwater wing of the party and the still-influential Rockefeller Republicans (Republicans from the [[Northeast]] who supported many New Deal programs).

The Republican administrations of President [[Richard Nixon]] in the [[1970s]] were characterized more by their emphasis on ''[[realpolitik]]'', [[détente]], and socialist [[economic planning]] policies such as [[wage and price controls]], than by their adherence to conservative rhetoric and more liberal actions.  

The Republican administrations of President [[Richard Nixon]] in the [[1970s]] were characterized more by their emphasis on ''[[realpolitik]]'', [[détente]], and socialist [[economic planning]] policies such as [[wage and price controls]], than by their adherence to conservative rhetoric and more liberal actions.  

In the eight years of [[Ronald Reagan]]'s presidency 1981-89 the American conservative movement achieved ascendancy. In 1980 the GOP took control of the Senate for the first time since 1954, and [[conservative principles]] dominated Reagan's economic and foreign policies, with [[supply side economics]] as well as a strict opposition to [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[Communism]]. The [[free trade]] movement was used as a means to promote [[capitalism]] in the [[Third World]] to counter [[Marxist]] [[national liberation movement]]s. Reagan promised to cut [[welfare]] spending but failed to do so.  He did cut taxes, but raised [[military spending]] and created large [[federal deficit]]s that turned out working to our advantage, because at that time, deficits didn't matter. It should be known that the Republicans also [[Balanced budget|balanced]] the [[budget]] in the late 1990s.

In the eight years of [[Ronald Reagan]]'s presidency, 1981-89, the American conservative movement achieved ascendancy. In 1980, the GOP took control of the Senate for the first time since 1954, and [[conservative principles]] dominated Reagan's economic and foreign policies, with [[supply side economics]] as well as a strict opposition to [[Soviet Union|Soviet]] [[Communism]]. The [[free trade]] movement was used as a means to promote [[capitalism]] in the [[Third World]] to counter [[Marxist]] [[national liberation movement]]s. Reagan promised to cut [[welfare]] spending but failed to do so.  He did cut taxes, but raised [[military spending]] and created large [[federal deficit]]s that turned out to work to our advantage, because at that time, deficits didn't matter. It should be known that the Republicans also [[Balanced budget|balanced]] the [[budget]] in the late 1990s.

An icon of the American conservative movement, Reagan is credited by his supporters with transforming American politics, galvanizing the Republican Party, uniting a coalition of economic conservatives who supported his supply-side economic policies, known as "[[Reaganomics]]," foreign policy conservatives who favored his success in stopping and rolling back Communism, and social conservatives who identified with Reagan's conservative religious and social ideals.

An icon of the American conservative movement, Reagan is credited by his supporters with transforming American politics, galvanizing the Republican Party, uniting a coalition of economic conservatives who supported his supply-side economic policies, known as "[[Reaganomics]]," foreign policy conservatives who favored his success in stopping and rolling back Communism, and social conservatives who identified with Reagan's conservative religious and social ideals.

=== Barack Obama and American Conservatism backlash ===

=== Barack Obama and American Conservatism Backlash ===

In October 2009, Niles Gardiner reported in the [[Britain|British]] newspaper ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'':

In October 2009, Niles Gardiner reported in the [[Britain|British]] newspaper ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'':

{{cquote|This week’s striking [[Gallup]] poll on political ideology is further confirmation that the United States is in essence a conservative nation, which has ironically become even more conservative under [[Barack Obama]]. According to Gallup, 40 percent of Americans describe their political views as conservative, 36 percent as moderate and 20 percent as liberal. This is the first time conservatives have outnumbered moderates in America since 2004.<ref>http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/nilegardiner/100014891/barack-obama-has-failed-to-defeat-conservatism-in-america/</ref>}}

{{cquote|This week’s striking [[Gallup]] poll on political ideology is further confirmation that the United States is in essence a conservative nation, which has ironically become even more conservative under [[Barack Obama]]. According to Gallup, 40 percent of Americans describe their political views as conservative, 36 percent as moderate and 20 percent as liberal. This is the first time conservatives have outnumbered moderates in America since 2004.<ref>http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/news/nilegardiner/100014891/barack-obama-has-failed-to-defeat-conservatism-in-america/</ref>}}

"Forty percent of Americans now self-identify as conservatives — double the amount of self-professed liberals — largely because independents are beginning to take sides."<ref>http://www.ashbrook.org/publicat/onprin/winter11/spalding.html</ref>

"Forty percent of Americans now self-identify as conservatives — double the amount of self-professed liberals — largely because independents are beginning to take sides."<ref>http://www.ashbrook.org/publicat/onprin/winter11/spalding.html</ref>

Conservatives strongly criticized Obama for his far-left and negative policies and the negative impact of those policies.<ref>Scaliger, Charles (February 23, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/politics/item/25433-barack-obama-s-legacy Barack Obama's Legacy]. ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.</ref><ref>Adelmann, Bob (January 20, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/politics/item/25183-is-obama-worst-u-s-president Is Obama Worst U.S. President?] ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.</ref><ref>Vargas, Mark (September 16, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-legacy-of-barack-obama-and-its-not-a-good-one The legacy of Barack Obama (and it's not a good one)]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 16, 2018.</ref> [[Dinesh D'Souza]] wrote, "Obama's legacy is to double the national debt & dramatically reduce US influence in the world."<ref>https://twitter.com/dineshdsouza/status/760447860638789632</ref> During Obama's 8 years in office, Democrats lost over 1,000 seats in the federal and state governments.<ref>[https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/12/27/democrats-lost-over-1000-seats-under-obama.html?refresh=true Democrats lost over 1,000 seats under Obama]. ''Fox News''. December 27, 2016. Retrieved December 27, 2016.</ref>

Conservatives strongly criticized Obama for his far-left and negative policies and the negative impact of those policies .<ref>Scaliger, Charles (February 23, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/politics/item/25433-barack-obama-s-legacy Barack Obama's Legacy]. ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.</ref> <ref>Adelmann, Bob (January 20, 2017). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/politics/item/25183-is-obama-worst-u-s-president Is Obama Worst U.S. President?] ''The New American''. Retrieved June 20, 2018.</ref> <ref>Vargas, Mark (September 16, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-legacy-of-barack-obama-and-its-not-a-good-one The legacy of Barack Obama (and it's not a good one)]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 16, 2018.</ref> [[Dinesh D'Souza]] wrote, "Obama's legacy is to double the national debt & dramatically reduce US influence in the world." <ref>https://twitter.com/dineshdsouza/status/760447860638789632</ref> During Obama's 8 years in office, Democrats lost over 1,000 seats in the federal and state governments .<ref>[https://www.foxnews.com/politics/2016/12/27/democrats-lost-over-1000-seats-under-obama.html?refresh=true Democrats lost over 1,000 seats under Obama]. ''Fox News''. December 27, 2016. Retrieved December 27, 2016.</ref>

Compare [[Progressive liberalism]].

Compare [[Progressive liberalism]].

{{See also|Donald Trump achievements}}

{{See also|Donald Trump achievements}}

Despite heavy opposition from the political [[establishment]], businessman [[Donald Trump]] defeated sixteen other candidates in the Republican primaries and defeated the heavy favorite in the general election, Hillary Clinton. As president, Trump enacted strongly conservative policies in issues such as deregulation, trade, immigration, religious freedom, abortion, and judges.

Despite heavy opposition from the political [[establishment]], businessman [[Donald Trump]] defeated sixteen other candidates in the Republican primaries and defeated the heavy favorite in the general election, Hillary Clinton. As president, Trump enacted strongly conservative policies in issues such as deregulation, trade, immigration, religious freedom, abortion, and judges.

=== Fertility rates of conservatives vs. liberals in the United States. The conservative fertility advantage probably will not give conservatives some inevitable long-term political edge ===

=== Fertility rates of conservatives vs. liberals in the United States. The conservative fertility advantage probably will not give conservatives an inevitable long-term political edge ===

''See also:'' [[Fertility rates of conservatives vs. liberals in the United States]]

''See also:'' [[Fertility rates of conservatives vs. liberals in the United States]]

Conservatism has a strong tradition in the [[United Kingdom]], with figures such as [[John Locke]] and [[Edmund Burke]] laying its philosophical foundation. Most British conservatives belong to the [[Conservative Party (UK)|Conservative Party]] – a [[big tent]] party that includes both consistent conservatives and liberal [[globalists]] – as well as the [[United Kingdom Independence Party]], [[Brexit Party]], and the [[Democratic Unionist Party]]. Some notable British conservatives include [[Winston Churchill]], [[Enoch Powell]], [[Margaret Thatcher]], [[Ian Paisley]], [[Nigel Farage]], [[Raheem Kassam]], and [[Jacob Rees-Mogg]].

Conservatism has a strong tradition in the [[United Kingdom]], with figures such as [[John Locke]] and [[Edmund Burke]] laying its philosophical foundation. Most British conservatives belong to the [[Conservative Party (UK)|Conservative Party]] – a [[big tent]] party that includes both consistent conservatives and liberal [[globalists]] – as well as the [[United Kingdom Independence Party]], [[Brexit Party]], and the [[Democratic Unionist Party]]. Some notable British conservatives include [[Winston Churchill]], [[Enoch Powell]], [[Margaret Thatcher]], [[Ian Paisley]], [[Nigel Farage]], [[Raheem Kassam]], and [[Jacob Rees-Mogg]].

Up until the mid-19th century, the forerunner of the Conservative Party were known as [[Tory|Tories]], and the name has persisted as a common nickname both for the political party and those believed to be in agreement with it.  Since the mid-to-late 1970s, British conservatives have been defined by an advocacy of [[laissez-faire]] economics, privatization and lower taxation. In recent years the Conservative Party has moved away from the social conservatism which once characterized it, and the current party policy includes, for example, support for [[abortion]] on demand, gay [[civil partnership]], the [[Kyoto Treaty]] and to oppose [[capital punishment]] (although it should be noted that such policies have little support among the party's grassroots membership).<ref>John Charmley, ''A History of Conservative Politics Since 1830'', (2nd ed. 2008)</ref> In common with conservatives in many other countries, British Conservatives tend towards a patriotic rather than internationalist outlook, and are traditionally skeptical of the [[European Union]].

Up until the mid-19th century, the forerunner of the Conservative Party was known as [[Tory|Tories]], and the name has persisted as a common nickname both for the political party and those believed to be in agreement with it.  Since the mid-to-late 1970s, British conservatives have been defined by an advocacy of [[laissez-faire]] economics, privatization, and lower taxation. In recent years the Conservative Party has moved away from the social conservatism which once characterized it, and the current party policy includes, for example, support for [[abortion]] on demand, gay [[civil partnership]], the [[Kyoto Treaty]] and opposition to [[capital punishment]] (although it should be noted that such policies have little support among the party's grassroots membership) .<ref>John Charmley, ''A History of Conservative Politics Since 1830'', (2nd ed. 2008)</ref> In common with conservatives in many other countries, British conservatives tend towards a patriotic rather than internationalist outlook, and are traditionally skeptical of the [[European Union]].

[[Margaret Thatcher]] revitalized the British conservatives much like Reagan revitalized American conservatives. During her tenure as Prime Minister, she cut taxes, trimmed back at government waste, and exercised a strong national defense abroad (including the [[Falklands War]] of 1982).

[[Margaret Thatcher]] revitalized the British conservatives much like Reagan revitalized American conservatives. During her tenure as Prime Minister, she cut taxes, trimmed back government waste, and exercised a strong national defense abroad (including the [[Falklands War]] of 1982).

Levels of prayer and worship are much lower in [[England]] and [[Wales]] than in the U.S., and religious issues thereby play less of a role in public discourse.  However, religious issues remain a significant factor in [[Northern Ireland]] and in 2008 religious issues were significant during a special election in [[Scotland]].

Levels of prayer and worship are much lower in [[England]] and [[Wales]] than in the U.S., and religious issues thereby play less of a role in public discourse.  However, religious issues remain a significant factor in [[Northern Ireland]], and in 2008, religious issues were significant during a special election in [[Scotland]].

The broadcast media (dominated by the [[BBC]]) is almost exclusively [[liberal]] in tone. The print media is slightly different with conservative-leaning newspapers like the ''[[Daily Mail]]'', ''[[Daily Express]]'' and ''[[Daily Telegraph]]'' selling more copies than their rivals.<ref>[http://www.mediauk.com/the_knowledge/i.muk/An_introduction_to_newspapers_in_the_UK Media UK; Introduction to newspapers in the UK]</ref> However, even the print media generally leans liberal.

The broadcast media (dominated by the [[BBC]]) is almost exclusively [[liberal]] in tone. The print media is slightly different, with conservative-leaning newspapers like the ''[[Daily Mail]]'', ''[[Daily Express]]'' and ''[[Daily Telegraph]]'' selling more copies than their rivals .<ref>[http://www.mediauk.com/the_knowledge/i.muk/An_introduction_to_newspapers_in_the_UK Media UK; Introduction to newspapers in the UK]</ref> However, even the print media generally leans liberal.

===Conservatives in Canada===

===Conservatives in Canada===Many Canadian conservatives align with the [[Conservative Party of Canada]], though the party does not strongly adhere to conservative values. The [[Christian Heritage Party]] is an example of a smaller but more consistent conservative Canadian party.

Many Canadian conservatives align with the [[Conservative Party of Canada]], though the party does not strongly adhere to conservative values. The [[Christian Heritage Party]] is an example of a smaller but more consistent conservative Canadian party.

===Conservatives in Australia===

=== Conservatives in Australia ===

Australia was once more conservative than England but sweeping [[gun control]] laws pushed the nation leftward toward greater dependency on government in the last decade.  In 2009, opposition to government control based on alleged [[global warming]] galvanized conservatives there and they led the [[Liberal Party of Australia]] to a repudiation of an emissions trading scheme.<ref>http://www.smh.com.au/national/shock-result-as-abbott-wins-liberal-leadership-by-one-vote--ets-dead-20091201-k1uz.html</ref> Conservatives also support smaller political parties such as the [[Family First Party]].

Australia was once more conservative than England, but sweeping [[gun control]] laws pushed the nation leftward toward greater dependency on government in the last decade.  In 2009, opposition to government control based on alleged [[global warming]] galvanized conservatives there, and they led the [[Liberal Party of Australia]] to a repudiation of an emissions trading scheme .<ref>http://www.smh.com.au/national/shock-result-as-abbott-wins-liberal-leadership-by-one-vote--ets-dead-20091201-k1uz.html</ref> Conservatives also support smaller political parties such as the [[Family First Party]].

=== Conservatives in Latin America ===

=== Conservatives in Latin America ===

In the early 21st century, [[Latin America]] has been shifting to the right,<ref>Multiple references:

In the early 21st century, [[Latin America]] has been shifting to the right, ,<ref>Multiple references:

* https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/18/world/americas/chile-election-latin-america-politics.html

* https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/18/world/americas/chile-election-latin-america-politics.html

*Martel, Frances (December 25, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/12/25/5-major-conservative-victories-latin-america-2017/ 5 Major Conservative Victories in Latin America in 2017]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.

*Martel, Frances (December 25, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/national-security/2017/12/25/5-major-conservative-victories-latin-america-2017/ 5 Major Conservative Victories in Latin America in 2017]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.

*Forero, Juan; Luhnow, David (December 19, 2019). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-leftist-pink-tide-in-latin-america-is-receding-11576772757 The Leftist ‘Pink Tide’ in Latin America Is Receding ]. ''The Wall Street Journal''. Retrieved December 19, 2019.

*Forero, Juan; Luhnow, David (December 19, 2019). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-leftist-pink-tide-in-latin-america-is-receding-11576772757 The Leftist ‘Pink Tide’ in Latin America Is Receding ]. ''The Wall Street Journal''. Retrieved December 19, 2019.

See also:

See also:

*Martel, Frances (December 22, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/latin-america/2018/12/22/brazils-conservatives-turn-ambitions-towards-global-anti-socialist-alliance/ Brazil’s Conservatives Turn Ambitions Towards Global Anti-Socialist Alliance]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 1, 2019.</ref> and conservative [[evangelical Christians]] have been growing in political influence.<ref>Puglie, Frederic (February 19, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/feb/19/latin-american-voters-turn-evangelicals-social-con/ Evangelicals' newfound political clout in Latin America unnerves politicians, Catholic Church]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref><ref>Polimédio, Chayenne (January 24, 2018). [https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/01/the-evangelical-takeover-of-brazilian-politics/551423/ The Rise of the Brazilian Evangelicals]. ''The Atlantic''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref>

*Martel, Frances (December 22, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/latin-america/2018/12/22/brazils-conservatives-turn-ambitions-towards-global-anti-socialist-alliance/ Brazil’s Conservatives Turn Ambitions Towards Global Anti-Socialist Alliance]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved January 1, 2019.</ref> and conservative [[evangelical Christians]] have been growing in political influence .<ref>Puglie, Frederic (February 19, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/feb/19/latin-american-voters-turn-evangelicals-social-con/ Evangelicals' newfound political clout in Latin America unnerves politicians, Catholic Church]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref> <ref>Polimédio, Chayenne (January 24, 2018). [https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/01/the-evangelical-takeover-of-brazilian-politics/551423/ The Rise of the Brazilian Evangelicals]. ''The Atlantic''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref>

Some notable Latin American conservatives include [[Jair Bolsonaro]] (Brazil), [[Eduardo Bolsonaro]] (Brazil), [[Ernesto Araújo]] (Brazil), [[Agustín Laje]] (Argentina), [[Nicolás Márquez]] (Argentina), [[José Antonio Kast]] (Chile), [[Hermógenes Pérez de Arce]] (Chile), [[Jimmy Morales]] (Guatemala), [[Fabricio Alvarado]] (Costa Rica),<ref>Cullinan Hoffman, Matthew (February 5, 2018). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/christian-minister-dominates-costa-rican-presidential-election-polls-after Christian minister takes lead in Costa Rican presidential election after vowing to stop gay agenda]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref> [[Alberto Fujimori]] (Peru), [[Keiko Fujimori]] (Peru), [[Alvaro Uribe]] (Colombia) and [[Mario Abdo Benítez]] (Paraguay).

Some notable Latin American conservatives include [[Jair Bolsonaro]] (Brazil), [[Eduardo Bolsonaro]] (Brazil), [[Ernesto Araújo]] (Brazil), [[Agustín Laje]] (Argentina), [[Nicolás Márquez]] (Argentina), [[José Antonio Kast]] (Chile), [[Hermógenes Pérez de Arce]] (Chile), [[Jimmy Morales]] (Guatemala), [[Fabricio Alvarado]] (Costa Rica) ,<ref>Cullinan Hoffman, Matthew (February 5, 2018). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/christian-minister-dominates-costa-rican-presidential-election-polls-after Christian minister takes lead in Costa Rican presidential election after vowing to stop gay agenda]. ''LifeSiteNews''. Retrieved October 28, 2018.</ref> [[Alberto Fujimori]] (Peru), [[Keiko Fujimori]] (Peru), [[Alvaro Uribe]] (Colombia) and [[Mario Abdo Benítez]] (Paraguay).

=== Conservatism and the French Revolution ===

=== Conservatism and the French Revolution ===

Conservatism in France and the European continent generally arose in the after 1790 as a response to the radicalism of the [[French Revolution]].

Conservatism in France and the European continent generally arose after 1790 as a response to the radicalism of the [[French Revolution]].

== Benefits of Conservatism ==

== Benefits of Conservatism ==

Several facets of conservatism function in unison to make it an effective and powerful philosophy.  Conservatism emphasizes personal freedom, independence, and initiative; this allows the [[best of the public]] to rise to their natural level of achievement.  Conservatives recognize that [[big government]] fosters dependency and stifles individual achievement—and thus, weakens society as a whole.   

Several facets of conservatism function in unison to make it an effective and powerful philosophy.  Conservatism emphasizes personal freedom, independence, and initiative; this allows the [[best of the public]] to rise to their natural level of achievement.  Conservatives recognize that [[big government]] fosters dependency and stifles individual achievement—and thus, weakens society as a whole.   

At the same time, conservatives also recognize that with individual freedom comes [[individual responsibility]].  In the absence of a hand-holding [[nanny state]], it is imperative that each individual take responsibility for his own actions, and exercise his rights and freedoms wisely and with discretion.  Thus, [[social conservatism]] is also critical to a successful society, as it emphasizes the importance of [[morality]], duty, and responsibility to one's self and fellow men.

At the same time, conservatives also recognize that with individual freedom comes [[individual responsibility]].  In the absence of a hand-holding [[nanny state]], it is imperative that each individual take responsibility for his own actions, and exercise his rights and freedoms wisely and with discretion.  Thus, [[social conservatism]] is also critical to a successful society, as it emphasizes the importance of [[morality]], duty, and responsibility to oneself and fellow men.

=== American conservatives and happiness ===

=== American conservatives and happiness ===

''See also:'' [[American liberalism and 21st century political losses]] and [[Secular leftists and psychogenic illness]]

''See also:'' [[American liberalism and 21st century political losses]] and [[Secular leftists and psychogenic illness]]

''Time'' magazine reported: "In the "who's happier?" race, a whole body of research shows conservatives report being happier. [http://www.sciencemag.org/content/347/6227/1243 Four new studies] published in ''Science'' hint at a possible reason why.<ref>[http://time.com/3744433/liberals-conservatives-happiness/ Liberals are More Honest Than Conservatives When They Smile], Time Magazine, 2015</ref>

''Time'' magazine reported: "In the " Who's happier? A whole body of research shows conservatives report being happier. [http://www.sciencemag.org/content/347/6227/1243 Four new studies] published in ''Science'' hint at a possible reason why .<ref>[http://time.com/3744433/liberals-conservatives-happiness/ Liberals are More Honest Than Conservatives When They Smile], Time Magazine, 2015</ref>

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*[[Larry McDonald]]

*[[Larry McDonald]]

==Further reading==

== Further reading ==

*  Critchlow, Donald T. ''The Conservative Ascendancy: How the GOP Right Made Political History'' (2007)  

*  Critchlow, Donald T. ''The Conservative Ascendancy: How the GOP Right Made Political History'' (2007)  

* Filler, Louis. ''Dictionary of American Conservatism The First Complete Guide to Issues, People, Organizations and Events'' (1987), a useful older encyclopedia

* Filler, Louis. ''Dictionary of American Conservatism The First Complete Guide to Issues, People, Organizations and Events'' (1987), a useful older encyclopedia

* Frohnen, Bruce et al. eds. ''American Conservatism: An Encyclopedia'' (2006), the most detailed reference

* Frohnen, Bruce et al. eds. ''American Conservatism: An Encyclopedia'' (2006), the most detailed reference

* Judis, John B. ''William F. Buckley, Jr.: Patron Saint of the Conservatives'' (1988) [https://www.amazon.com/William-F-Buckley-Jr-Conservatives/dp/0743217977/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1207759425&sr=8-1 excerpt and text search]

* Judis, John B. ''William F. Buckley, Jr.: Patron Saint of the Conservatives'' (1988) [https://www.amazon.com/William-F-Buckley-Jr-Conservatives/dp/0743217977/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1207759425&sr=8-1 excerpt and text search]

* Kirk, Russell. ''The Conservative Mind''. (7th ed. 2001). highly influential conservative history of ideas [http://www.historyebook.org/ online at ACLS e-books]

* Kirk, Russell. ''The Conservative Mind''. (7th ed. 2001). Highly influential conservative history of ideas [http://www.historyebook.org/ online at ACLS e-books]

* Link, William A. ''Righteous warrior: Jesse Helms and the rise of modern conservatism'' (2008) 643 pages  

* Link, William A. ''Righteous warrior: Jesse Helms and the rise of modern conservatism'' (2008) 643 pages  

* Micklethwait, John, and Adrian Wooldridge. ''The Right Nation,'' (2004) influential survey [https://www.amazon.com/Right-Nation-Conservative-Power-America/dp/B000F71124/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1205919226&sr=1-1 excerpt and text search]

* Micklethwait, John, and Adrian Wooldridge. ''The Right Nation,'' (2004) influential survey [https://www.amazon.com/Right-Nation-Conservative-Power-America/dp/B000F71124/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1205919226&sr=1-1 excerpt and text search]

* Micklethwait, John, and Adrian Wooldridge. ''God Is Back: How the Global Revival of Faith Is Changing the World'' (2009)

* Micklethwait, John, and Adrian Wooldridge. ''God Is Back: How the Global Revival of Faith Is Changing the World'' (2009)

* Nash, George. ''The Conservative Intellectual Movement in America Since 1945'' (2006), excellent scholarly history. [https://www.amazon.com/Conservative-Intellectual-Movement-America-Since/dp/1933859121/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241925238&sr=1-2 excerpt and text search]

* Nash, George. ''The Conservative Intellectual Movement in America Since 1945'' (2006), excellent scholarly history. [https://www.amazon.com/Conservative-Intellectual-Movement-America-Since/dp/1933859121/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241925238&sr=1-2 excerpt and text search]

*Pemberton, William E. ''Exit with Honor: The Life and Presidency of Ronald Reagan'' (1998) [http://www.questia.com/library/book/exit-with-honor-the-life-and-presidency-of-ronald-reagan-by-william-e-pemberton.jsp online edition]

* Pemberton, William E. ''Exit with Honor: The Life and Presidency of Ronald Reagan'' (1998) [http://www.questia.com/library/book/exit-with-honor-the-life-and-presidency-of-ronald-reagan-by-william-e-pemberton.jsp online edition]

*Perlstein, Rick. ''Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus'' (2004) on 1964 [https://www.amazon.com/Before-Storm-Goldwater-Unmaking-Consensus/dp/0809028581/ref=sr_1_1/103-4827826-5463040?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1193684721&sr=8-1 excerpt and text search]

* Perlstein, Rick. ''Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus'' (2004) on 1964 [https://www.amazon.com/Before-Storm-Goldwater-Unmaking-Consensus/dp/0809028581/ref=sr_1_1/103-4827826-5463040?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1193684721&sr=8-1 excerpt and text search]

*Perlstein, Rick. ''Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America'' (2008) [https://www.amazon.com/Nixonland-Rise-President-Fracturing-America/dp/074324303X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241924189&sr=1-1 excerpt and text search]

* Perlstein, Rick. ''Nixonland: The Rise of a President and the Fracturing of America'' (2008) [https://www.amazon.com/Nixonland-Rise-President-Fracturing-America/dp/074324303X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1241924189&sr=1-1 excerpt and text search]

* Schneider, Gregory L. ed. ''Conservatism in America Since 1930: A Reader'' (2003)  

* Schneider, Gregory L. ed. ''Conservatism in America Since 1930: A Reader'' (2003)  

*Schoenwald; Jonathan. ''A Time for Choosing: The Rise of Modern American Conservatism'' (2002) [http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=104931191 online edition] also [http://www.historyebook.org/ online at ACLS e-books]

* Schoenwald, Jonathan. ''A Time for Choosing: The Rise of Modern American Conservatism'' (2002) [http://www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=104931191 online edition] also [http://www.historyebook.org/ online at ACLS e-books]

* Schweizer, Peter, and Wynton C. Hall, eds. ''Landmark Speeches of the American Conservative Movement'' (2007) [https://www.amazon.com/Landmark-Speeches-American-Conservative-Movement/dp/1585445983/ref=sr_1_4/103-4827826-5463040?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1193685365&sr=1-4 excerpt and text search]

* Schweizer, Peter, and Wynton C. Hall, eds. ''Landmark Speeches of the American Conservative Movement'' (2007) [https://www.amazon.com/Landmark-Speeches-American-Conservative-Movement/dp/1585445983/ref=sr_1_4/103-4827826-5463040?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1193685365&sr=1-4 excerpt and text search]

{{Reflist|colwidth=35em}}

{{Reflist|colwidth=35em}}

==External links==

== External links ==

*[http://www.aim.org/wls/category/conservatives/ What Liberals Say - Category: Conservatives], [[Accuracy In Media]]

*[http://www.aim.org/wls/category/conservatives/ What Liberals Say - Category: Conservatives], [[Accuracy In Media]]

*[https://www.youtube.com/user/rescueKAL007#p/a/FD3DE4F0642C350C/0/1c8v-kgLvhM Pat Buchanan's "Crossfire" interview with [[Larry McDonald]] 3 months before downing of [[KAL 007]], Ron Paul intro]

*[https://www.youtube.com/user/rescueKAL007#p/a/FD3DE4F0642C350C/0/1c8v-kgLvhM Pat Buchanan's "Crossfire" interview with [[Larry McDonald]] 3 months before downing of [[KAL 007]], Ron Paul intro]