Iran-Contra Affair: Key Concepts

The Iran-Contra Affair was a Cold War-era scandal involving a secret arms deal between the US and Iran, intended to secure the release of hostages in Lebanon. Despite US sanctions, the Reagan administration covertly approved the sale of arms to Iran, with profits funneled to support Contra rebels in Nicaragua. The Boland Amendment restricted such actions, but key figures like Oliver North and John Poindexter orchestrated the scheme. Congressional investigations revealed the extent of the covert operations, ultimately holding President Reagan responsible, though he claimed ignorance. The affair tarnished Reagan's presidency but was largely overlooked in history.

What event brought the Iran-Contra Affair to public attention in 1986?

• A presidential speech

• A Beirut newspaper report

• A United Nations conference

• A U.S. Senate hearing

What was the primary goal of the Boland Amendment?

• To increase military spending

• To restrict U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts

• To support the Contras in Nicaragua

• To promote arms sales to Iran

How did the Reagan administration plan to fund the Contras?

• By selling arms to Iran at inflated prices

• By increasing taxes

• By borrowing from international banks

• By cutting domestic programs

Who admitted to keeping the details of the covert operations from President Reagan?

• John Poindexter

• Oliver North

• Robert McFarlane

• George Schultz

What was the role of the Tower Commission in the Iran-Contra Affair?

• To investigate the affair

• To support the Contras

• To draft new legislation

• To negotiate with Iran

What did the congressional committee conclude about President Reagan's responsibility in the Iran-Contra Affair?

• He was fully aware and responsible

• He was unaware but should have been

• He had no involvement whatsoever

• He was misled by his advisors

Who was the only person to serve prison time for their involvement in the Iran-Contra Affair?

• Robert McFarlane

• Oliver North

• John Poindexter

• Thomas Kleins

How did President Reagan describe the Iran-Contra Affair under oath?

• A necessary action

• A misunderstood event

• A strategic success

• A mistake

What nickname did Reagan earn due to his ability to avoid lasting damage from scandals?

• The Resilient Leader

• The Teflon President

• The Untouchable Commander

• The Iron President

What was the ultimate impact of the Iran-Contra Affair on Reagan's presidency?

• It led to his impeachment

• It was largely overlooked in history

• It strengthened his political power

• It caused a major economic downturn