Compared to the 70's the 80's were great. Its also easy to make a case that the reform laid by Reagan set the stage for the growth of the 90's

If you think the tech boom could have happened under pre-Reagan era tax oppression, I have a few pieces from the brooklyn bridge to sell ya.

For who could be free when every other man's humour might domineer over him? - John Locke (2nd Treatise, sect 57)