1981 Assassination Attempt

The 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan occurred on March 30, when a gunman, John Hinckley Jr., shot Reagan outside a Washington hotel. Hinckley aimed to impress actress Jodie Foster, but the attack injured Reagan and three others, including a police officer. Reagan was quickly hospitalized and recovered fully. The incident highlighted concerns about presidential security and mental health issues, leading to increased security measures for U.S. presidents. Hinckley was found not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to a mental health facility.