The tributes were coordinated by the Ronald Reagan Foundation and the Reagan Centennial Commission, a panel specially formed for the anniversary by Congress with President Barack Obama's approval.

Among the events was the unveiling of a giant six-foot-by-six-foot birthday cake to be served to visitors at the newly-renovated Reagan museum in Simi Valley. On top of it were 20,000 jelly beans, the presidential seal and photos from Mr Reagan's life.

Jelly beans were Mr Reagan's favourite confection and for those who could not attend the celebrations there was the opportunity to order a 50-flavour jelly bean package that included posters featuring "words to lead by."

In Washington, volunteers handed out jelly beans to tourists. Unlike previous centennials, no taxpayer funds were used for the events. Instead, private donors like General Electric were used.

Mr Obama has been keen to associate himself with Mr Reagan, making it known that he read a Reagan biography during his Christmas holiday.

In a recent newspaper article, he wrote: "No matter what political disagreements you may have had with President Reagan and I certainly had my share there is no denying his leadership in the world, or his gift for communicating his vision for America."

Events will continue throughout the year, including the unveiling of new Reagan statues in London and at the airport in Washington that is named after him, a centennial postage stamp and 14,000 commemorative coins to be used for the opening toss at high school and college football games.