Offers a critical evaluation of the Reagan administration's policy towards South Africa.

The purpose of this thesis is to analyze the debate surrounding the policy of constructive engagement and the dilemma the Reagan Administration had in justifying continued acknowledgement of the apartheid government of South Africa during the mid 1980's. At issue is whether Reagan's engagement with South Africa was practical and ultimately helped end apartheid; or, was it counterproductive and was merely tacit approval of the South African government that extended the life of apartheid.