As we celebrate President's Day this month, one local historian is shedding light on US Presidents with ties to Illinois.

Illinois lays claim to having four Presidents call the state their home at some point but among the four, only Ronald Reagan is distinctive due to being the only one born here. Joe Alexander's new speaking series highlights Reagan's life was full of many ups and downs.

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"Ronald Reagan on Adversity" details the struggles the president' dealt with throughout his life. Alexander explains not everyone knows Reagan's childhood was difficult because to his father's alcoholism. The speech also touches on the more well known struggles as well, like the assassination attempt on Reagan's life and his battle with Alzheimer's.

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The presentation will also feature words about Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant and Barack Obama, who all once called Illinois home.

Alexander has presented in Lincoln and Pontiac so far and will soon be in Forsyth, Springfield and Bloomington. For information on his speaking schedule, you can follow him on Facebook or find him on Twitter @Joe_Speaker.