Richard Milhous NIXON
1969 - January 20 - Richard M. Nixon (1913-1994) becomes 37th President of the United States

Richard Nixon's presidency, which lasted from 1969 to 1974, was marked by significant achievements and controversies. Nixon, a Republican, implemented several key domestic policies, including the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Clean Air Act, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). His administration also saw the introduction of revenue sharing and affirmative action policies.

In foreign affairs, Nixon pursued a policy of détente with the Soviet Union, leading to the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) and improved relations with China, highlighted by his historic visit to Beijing in 1972. He also worked to end the Vietnam War, eventually leading to the Paris Peace Accords in 1973.

However, Nixon's presidency is most infamous for the Watergate scandal, a major political scandal following the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts by Nixon and his administration. The scandal led to Nixon's resignation on August 8, 1974, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office. Nixon was succeeded by Vice President Gerald Ford, who later pardoned him for any crimes he might have committed while in office.


January 20, 1969

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