How does one use the gradient tool in Adobe Illustrator?

Question: How does one use the gradient tool in Adobe Illustrator!?

I'm trying to make a cool background for a flier by having it fade from red to white, but I can't figure out how to use the gradient tool for that!. Can someone help me!?Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

from help:
Select an object using any selection tool!.
Do one of the following:
Click the Swap Fill and Stroke button , or press Shift+x to swap colors between the fill and the stroke!.
Click the Default Fill and Stroke button to return to the default color settings (white fill and black stroke)!.
Click the Color button to change the currently selected stroke or fill to the last-selected solid color in the Color palette!.
Click the Gradient button to change the currently selected fill to the last-selected gradient in the Gradient palette!.
Click the None button to remove the object's fill or stroke!.
Double-click the Fill or Stroke button to choose a color with the Color Picker!. See Using the Color Picker!.Www@QuestionHome@Com