[citation needed] In his autobiography, An American Life, Reagan recalled going to bed that night "hoping I hadn't let Barry down.

Up to man's age-old dream – the maximum of individual freedom consistent with law and order – or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism.

"[2][3] The speech raised $1 million for Goldwater's campaign,[4] and is considered the event that launched Reagan's political career.

Soon afterward, Reagan was asked to run for Governor of California; he ran for office and won the election in 1966.

[7] Reagan's speech in 1964 not only made him the leader of this movement but also earned him the nickname "The Great Communicator" in recognition of his effective oratory skills.