Have we misremembered Ronald Reagan?

In the US, it seems each day brings another presidential contender; on the Republican side of the race, the field has already swelled to double digits.

While their positions may differ - most are vying to grab the mantle of Ronald Reagan - who died 11 years ago.

The 40th president has become an icon for the party, and in an age of increasing gridlock in Washington, that famous Reagan charm could do many good.

So what made him such a skilled politician? Some of the answers can be found in the new biography Reagan: The Life, by HW Brands. The BBC's Nick Bryant spoke to the author about President Reagan's lasting legacy.

Photos courtesy of the Ronald Reagan Library.