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**Young Americans for Freedom**
**Describe the criticisms of American society the individual or group made __and__ what goals they hoped to achieve.** The YAF is against collectivism, socialism, and statism. At the time of their creation, members were worried about where the American government was headed. The group looks to advance conservative ideals and is an advocate for limited government, individual freedom, free enterprise, traditional values, and a strong national defense. Their goals were, "To promote social welfare and individual freedom; To study any legislation from any governmental bodies or agencies that seek to affect social and economic problems of the individual; To support the preservation and enhancement of individual freedom for all Americans; To provide aid and information to students and such young adults throughout the nation to assist them in achieving and maintaining the ideological realization of the beliefs in the Sharon Statement; and to maintain and operate a chapter based organization with national, regional and local networks throughout the United State of America." Their specific policies were outlined in the Sharon Statement. In the Sharon Statement it says that communism is the greatest threat to our freedoms, and that we should focus on an American victory over communism.

YAF was created by young Americans, mostly on college campuses. Many universities have clubs for YAF. In 1961, //The New Guard// was launched as the group's official magazine. In addition to the magazine the group held many campaigns and conventions early on in an effort to spread their views. Barry Goldwater's nomination and eventual run for president in 1964 propelled YAF to reach viewers nationwide. In 1970 they held a nationwide campaign to support U.S victory in Vietnam. The group also boasts famous members including Ronald Reagan, vice president Dan Quayle, senator Jeff Sessions, and many other U.S representatives.
 * Explain the methods the person or group used to share their message. Be sure to provide examples.**

Their methods were practical for the time period because it got the young American population involved. They used the college campus atmosphere to their benefit to spread their views. Their strong anti-communist stance was popular at the time, and therefore encouraged more followers.
 * Discuss the intent to which the goals and methods used by the individual or group were practical in this time period.**

YAF's successes are shown through the number of conservative political figures who began their careers as members of the group. Getting their members elected in government positions greatly assisted in spreading their ideas. The group also sparked a conservative movement where many new conservative organizations were established. Oftentimes, these organizations were formed by YAF alumni.
 * __Evaluate__ the successes the individual or group had in promoting their position.**

"Young Americans for Freedom." //Young America's Foundation//. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 May 2012. .// //"Young Americans for Freedom - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia."// Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia//. N.p., n.d. Web. 1 May 2012. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Young_Americans_for_Freedom#Statement
 * Works Cited/Referenced**