Richard Nixon’s presidency

Richard Nixon served as Vice-President of the United States from 1953 to 1961, and as President from 1969 to 1974. He was the only person to be elected twice to both the Presidency and Vice Presidency. In 1969 Americans had joined together in pride over the lunar landing and Neil Armstrong’s walk on the moon.

Yet Nixon’s personality may have played a part in his eventual demise. He believed the United States faced grave dangers from the radicals and dissidents who were challenging his policies, and he came to view any challenge as a “threat to national security.” As a result, he created a climate in which he and those who served him could justify almost any tactics to stifle dissent and undermine the opposition. He has been described as being a devious, secretive, and embittered man whose White House became a series of covert activities. On August 9, 1974, Richard Nixon became the first chief executive in American History to resign, because of his role in the Watergate scandal.

Some Americans viewed this as an indication that the system worked. They were proud of the way the US political system had weathered the crisis and peacefully transferred power. Others worried about the further erosion of popular trust and belief in their government. Regardless, when he left office the nation remembered an administration that had been discredited by the Agnew and Watergate scandals. Watergate has come to define Nixon’s presidency.

Answer the following question (100-150 words):

Evaluate Richard Nixon’s presidency. Aside from Watergate, should he be considered a good president?

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Sample Answer

Richard Nixon’s presidency was a mixed bag. He achieved some notable successes, such as opening up relations with China and ending the Vietnam War. However, his presidency was also marred by scandal, most notably Watergate.

Aside from Watergate, Nixon’s presidency can be evaluated on a number of factors. He was a skilled diplomat and negotiator, and he was able to achieve some important foreign policy goals. He also presided over a period of economic growth. However, he was also a divisive figure, and his policies were often seen as being too conservative.

Full Answer Section

Ultimately, whether or not Nixon should be considered a good president is a matter of opinion. There is no doubt that he was a talented politician, but his legacy is tarnished by Watergate.

Here are some of the pros and cons of Nixon’s presidency:

Pros:

  • Opened up relations with China
  • Ended the Vietnam War
  • Presidied over a period of economic growth
  • Was a skilled diplomat and negotiator

Cons:

  • Watergate scandal
  • Divisive figure
  • Policies seen as too conservative

Overall, Nixon’s presidency was a mixed bag. He achieved some notable successes, but his legacy is tarnished by Watergate. Whether or not he should be considered a good president is a matter of opinion.

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