Nixon's Path to the Presidency
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The Presidency of Richard Nixon and the Watergate Scandal
Lesson Plans by Richard Cleggett
Richard Nixon’s presidency is shrouded in both success and controversy. Having served in several political positions, Nixon was a ruthless politician who cared very much about his public image, which would be deeply affected by the Watergate Scandal that served as his political demise. With activities in this lesson plan, students will to go in depth into his presidency, policies, and his resignation.
Storyboard Description
Nixon Timeline - Using a timeline storyboard, have students detail Richard Nixon’s rise to the presidential office. Students will be able to explain and analyze how Nixon rose to the executive office, as well as what major events highlighted his eventual election. Students should highlight both his political successes and failures, as well as what positions Nixon held before becoming president. Students should also be made aware of what constructed Nixon’s platform as president, as well as what influenced his ideas and policies.
Storyboard Text
- NIXON IN THE OFFICE OF PRICE ADMINISTRATION
- TIMELINE: NIXON'S PATH TO THE PRESIDENCY
- A young, ambitious lawyer, Nixon first emerges on the national political stage by serving as an attorney for the Office for Price Administration (OPA). The position has a profound effect on him and his views towards political policies.
- HONORABLE DISCHARGE FROM NAVY
- ELECTED TO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
- Running as a candidate for California's 12th district, Nixon is elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. Here, Nixon continues to make key political connections and has continued success, further advancing his quick rise in politics.
- After serving at various battle station assignments in the Navy, Nixon is honorably discharged, leaving with the rank of lieutenant. Nixon is credited with aiding pilots and servicemen, and notably ran the only hamburger stand in the South Pacific.
- ELECTED TO U.S. SENATE
- CHOSEN AS EISENHOWER'S VICE PRESIDENT
- After serving in the House of Representatives, Nixon is then elected to the U.S. Senate, again representing California, his home state. His position will help catapult him onto Dwight D. Eisenhower's presidential ticket.
- Nixon is chosen as Eisenhower's running mate on the Republican presidential ticket. He will serve two terms with Eisenhower. He also delivers his famous "Checkers" speech, as well as participates in the "Kitchen Debates".
- LOSES PRESIDENTIAL RACE TO KENNEDY
- After being nominated as the Republican presidential candidate, Nixon loses the 1960 presidential race John F. Kennedy. The loss motivates Nixon tremendously, as he hates to lose.
- ELECTED AMERICA'S 37TH PRESIDENT
- From 1963-1967, Nixon (as a private citizen) tours the globe promoting Republican candidates. In 1968, Nixon is chosen as the Republican candidate and defeats VP Hubert Humphrey and Alabama Governor George Wallace. Richard Nixon becomes the 37th president of the United States.
Image Attributions
- John F. Kennedy and Florida Senator George Smathers in Washington, D.C. - State Library and Archives of Florida - (License No known copyright restrictions )
- Michael Johns and Richard Nixon, 1991 - michaeldjohns - (License Attribution )
- President Nixon and Dr. Paine Wait to Meet Apollo 11 Astronauts - NASA on The Commons - (License No known copyright restrictions )
- President Nixon with Dr. James Fletcher and Apollo 16 Astronauts - NASA on The Commons - (License No known copyright restrictions )
- Richard Nixon - History In An Hour - (License Attribution )
- Richard Nixon laughing with Governor Claude Kirk and bride, Erika Mattfield Kirk, during their wedding celebration: Palm Beach, Florida - State Library and Archives of Florida - (License No known copyright restrictions )
- Royal Indian Navy officers on the deck of HMIS HINDUSTAN in Sydney - Australian National Maritime Museum on The Commons - (License No known copyright restrictions )
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