What is Richard Nixon?
Richard Nixon was the 37th President of the United States, serving from 1969 to 1974 Born in California in 1913, Nixon was a lawyer before turning to politics. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and then won a congressional seat representing southern California in 1946. Nixon became Vice President in 1953 and served under Dwight Eisenhower until 1961. He was the Republican presidential candidate in the 1960 election and lost to John F. Kennedy. Following a failed gubernatorial bid in 1962, Nixon was elected President in 1968 and re-elected in 1972. As President, he opened diplomatic relations with China and signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty with the Soviet Union. Unfortunately, Nixon was forced to resign in 1974 because of the Watergate scandal and its related cover-up.
Five Interesting Essay Topic Ideas About Richard Nixon:
1. The Scope of Presidential Power: This topic would examine Nixon's use of executive privilege and how he consumed many of the powers of the president. It would also look at how his actions have shaped the office of the presidency since then and the impact on other areas of the government.
2. Impact of the Vietnam War: This topic would explore Nixon's actions related to the Vietnam War and their effects on the country. It would also discuss the implications of his decisions for the U.S. military, the American people, and the U.S.'s place in the world.
3. Watergate and its Ramifications: This topic would trace the history of the Watergate scandal and its impact on public opinion and Nixon's presidency. It would also look at the impeachment proceedings as well as the investigation conducted by the FBI and how this scandal has changed the way presidents deal with similar issues.
4. Nixon and Civil Rights: This topic would examine how Nixon both championed and opposed civil rights. It would discuss his political strategies in the South and the fallout of his policies regarding school desegregation and other civil rights initiatives.
5. Nixon's Political Legacy: This topic would discuss Nixon's accomplishments and failures as president and his lasting impact on domestic and foreign policy. It would examine his role in the opening of diplomatic relations with China, the ending of the Vietnam War, and the outbreak of the Watergate scandal. It would also look at his place in American politics and history post-presidency.