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Richard Milhous Nixon Born: January 9, 1913 Died: April 22, 1994 Political Party: Republican Terms: (1969-1973) and (1973-1974) Vice Presidents: Spiro T. Agnew (1969-1973), Gerald Ford (1973-1974)

Richard Nixon is not one of the most popular presidents of the United States, but the ways in which he did aid America should improve this negative view. From helping the environment to improving foreign relations even to pulling America out of the Vietnam War. But, considering the Watergate Scandal, which resulted in his impeachment, and rising unemployment would give him a grade of a D+.

Nixon's overall goal was reconciliation. He wanted to fix tensions at home and pull America out of the Vietnam War. Not only had Nixon reached his reconciliation goal, but he had also reached beyond the goal by improving foreign relations with the USSR and China. On the other hand, fixing tensions at home, did not happen. The Watergate Scandal worsened these tensions when it had been revealed to the American people.

Nixon's relationship with Congress was better than some president's had, but still not perfect or even the best. Most laws and bills were passed easily and without much controversy. Laws and other legislation about the environment, workers compensation, and welfare programs were all passed through Congress. Gradualism was also adopted to further improve the economy.

The action that had the most positive outcome during Nixon's terms as president was the improved foreign relations with the U.S.S.R. and China. Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty and the Anit-Ballistic Missile treaty, were signed with the USSR. Agreements with science, space, and trade were made with Russia and China. These improvements prevented possible further race issues with communists.

On the other hand the most nagative action of Nixon was the Watergate Scandal. The Watergate Scandal involved taping phone conversations and the illegal creation of a secret police. After the scandal was released, Richard Nixon's popularity plummeted and was in possible candidate for impeachment. So as not to get impeached, Nixon resigned, making Gerald Ford president.

Nixon had enforced legislation in his presidency that had influenced the future of American presidents. Environmental acts, improved foreign relations, and other legislative programs greatly influence presidents today and of the future.

The presidency of Nixon was very popular with the American people. Yes, he had enforced laws, bills, and programs that improved the environment, economy, and foreign relations, but his fatal fall was the Watergate Scandal. For these reasons, Nixon is a president that deserves a D+.

Bibliography

"American President: Richard Milhous Nixon: Domestic Affairs." Miller Center of Public Affairs. Web. 21 Dec. 2010. .

DeGregorio, William A. The Complete Book of U.S. Presidents. Ed. Sandra Lee. Stuart. Fort Lee, NJ: Barricade, 2009. Print.

"Richard M. Nixon." The White House. Web. 21 Dec. 2010. .