Why does the element calcium exhibit pronounced reductive properties?

Why does the element calcium exhibit pronounced reductive properties? Why is the simple thing calcium referred to as alkaline earth metals?

The element calcium exhibits pronounced reducing (metallic) properties due to the fact that it is located in the IIA group of the periodic system of D.I. Mendeleev. It is explained by the fact that at the external level it has 2 electrons, which the atom easily gives up to non-metals. Thus, calcium tends to complete the outer level.
Alkaline earth metals (including calcium) are called due to the fact that they are found in all minerals of the earth – therefore “earth”, and “alkaline” – as they give water an alkaline reaction.