1972: Richard Nixon is reelected President of the United States in a near-record landslide. Democrats win majorities in both houses.

1980: Ronald Reagan becomes the fortieth President of the United States after a landslide victory over Jimmy Carter; Republicans control the Senate for the first time since 1964.

1986: President Reagan admits secret arms deals with Iran in breach of the U.S. arms embargo (the "Irangate" scandal).

1972: Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos declares martial law in response to what he calls a "communist rebellion"; Marcos assumes neardictatorial powers.

1986: In the Philippines' presidential election, Ferdinand Marcos retains the presidency by defeating Corazon Aquino, who alleges extensive ballot rigging; subsequently Marcos flees the Philippines, and Corazon Aquino becomes the new President.