Watergate Scandal 1972-1974: Nixon's Crimes — Reading Comprehension

The Watergate Scandal was a major political crisis in the United States from 1972 to 1974. It began when men connected to President Richard Nixon’s re-election campaign broke into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate office complex in Washington, D.C. Their goal was to steal documents and secretly record conversations. This illegal act was just the beginning of a series of actions that would challenge the foundation of American democracy.

At first, President Nixon and his advisors tried to conceal their connection to the break-in. Using money and political power, they attempted to cover up the crime and mislead the public. However, reporters from The Washington Post, especially Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, investigated deeply and discovered links between the burglars and top White House officials. The media played a crucial role in bringing the truth to light, showing the importance of a free press in a democracy.

The problem grew more serious as evidence mounted. Congressional hearings began, and prosecutors collected testimony from many witnesses. In one famous moment, a White House aide revealed that Nixon had a secret recording system. These tapes contained conversations that could prove the president’s involvement in the cover-up. When asked to release the tapes, Nixon delayed and refused, claiming “executive privilege.” This action raised questions about the limits of presidential power and whether anyone, even the president, was above the law.

Different groups saw the scandal in different ways. Nixon’s supporters argued that the president was protecting national security and that the break-in was a minor issue. Critics insisted that abusing government power and lying to the public were serious crimes that threatened the integrity of the presidency. Members of Congress, both Democrats and Republicans, began to demand answers. In the words of Senator Sam Ervin, who led the Senate investigation, “No man is above the law.” This quote became a symbol of the struggle for justice and accountability.

As the investigation continued, new evidence came to light. The tapes revealed that Nixon had participated in attempts to obstruct justice. The House of Representatives began the process of impeachment, which means formally charging a president with crimes. Before the process could be completed, Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign, stepping down on August 8, 1974. Vice President Gerald Ford then became president and later gave Nixon a full pardon, meaning he would not face criminal charges.

The Watergate scandal had lasting consequences for American government and society. It damaged public trust in leaders and led to new laws that increased oversight of political campaigns and government actions. It also showed the importance of checks and balances, where different branches of government can hold each other accountable. The scandal remains a powerful reminder of the need for honesty and responsibility in public office.

Interesting Fact: Interesting Fact: After Watergate, the suffix “-gate” began to be used to describe other political scandals around the world.

Where did the break-in occur?

Who became president after Nixon resigned?

What year did Nixon resign?

Why did Nixon claim executive privilege?

What did the tapes reveal?

What was one consequence of Watergate?

Nixon was the first president to resign.

What does 'impeachment' mean?