Richard Nixon Resignation 1974: Only President Resigns — Reading Comprehension

On August 9, 1974, President Richard Nixon became the only president in American history to resign from office. The decision was not easy, and it dramatically changed how Americans viewed their government. Nixon’s resignation was the result of a major political crisis known as the Watergate scandal. This event tested the strength of the U.S. Constitution and the principle that even the president must obey the law.

The Watergate scandal began in 1972, when a group connected to Nixon’s campaign broke into the Democratic National Committee office at the Watergate hotel. They attempted to steal documents and wiretap phones to gain political advantages. When the burglars were caught, Nixon and his staff tried to cover up their involvement. This cover-up became a bigger problem than the crime itself. As investigations continued, the media, especially journalists from The Washington Post, uncovered more evidence. One of Nixon’s former aides revealed that secret tape recordings existed. When asked to turn over the tapes, Nixon refused, claiming “executive privilege.” The Supreme Court disagreed, stating that, “no person, not even the President of the United States, is completely above the law.” This quote showed that the legal system could challenge presidential power.

The release of the tapes provided concrete proof that Nixon had attempted to obstruct justice. Members of Congress, from both political parties, believed that Nixon had broken his oath of office. The House of Representatives began preparing articles of impeachment, which could have led to Nixon’s removal. Facing almost certain impeachment and loss of support, Nixon decided to resign. In his televised address, he said, “I have never been a quitter. To leave office before my term is completed is abhorrent to every instinct in my body.” However, he believed resigning was best for the country.

Different groups viewed Nixon’s resignation in various ways. Some Americans felt betrayed and lost trust in government leaders. Others respected the peaceful transfer of power, seeing it as proof that American democracy could survive a crisis. Vice President Gerald Ford became president and soon gave Nixon a pardon, which meant Nixon would not be tried in court for his actions. Ford explained that the country needed to move forward and heal, but some people strongly disagreed, arguing that justice was not served.

The Watergate scandal and Nixon’s resignation had lasting consequences. New laws increased government transparency and limited presidential authority. Congress passed reforms to prevent future abuses of power. The scandal also made investigative journalism more important. Americans became more skeptical of political leaders, but the crisis proved that the system of checks and balances worked as intended. The president was held accountable by Congress, the courts, and the press.

Overall, Richard Nixon’s resignation was a turning point in U.S. history. It demonstrated both the weaknesses and strengths of American democracy. By facing the problem and finding a solution through legal and constitutional means, the country showed its commitment to justice and the rule of law.

Interesting Fact: President Nixon’s resignation letter was only two sentences long, making it one of the shortest official documents in American history.

When did Nixon resign as president?

What was the name of the scandal?

Who became president after Nixon resigned?

Why did Nixon resign?

What did the Supreme Court rule?

What was the impact of Watergate?

Nixon was impeached by Congress. True or false?

What does 'impeachment' mean?