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Explore the life of Richard Nixon, from his humble beginnings and rise to the presidency, to his significant policies in civil rights, welfare, and foreign affairs. Nixon's tenure is also remembered for the Watergate Scandal, which led to his resignation and left a lasting impact on American politics and public trust in government.
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Despite financial hardship and the loss of two brothers, Nixon excelled academically and earned a scholarship to Whittier College and Duke University School of Law
Service in World War II
Nixon's service as a Naval officer during World War II provided him with a platform to enter politics
Involvement in the Alger Hiss Case
Nixon's involvement in the Alger Hiss case as part of the House Un-American Activities Committee bolstered his political career
Nixon's reputation as a fervent anti-communist and his performance in the 1959 'kitchen debate' with Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev contributed to his selection as Dwight D. Eisenhower's Vice Presidential running mate
Civil Rights
Nixon supported civil rights and implemented affirmative action through the Philadelphia Plan and desegregation efforts
Welfare Programs
Nixon proposed the Family Assistance Plan and established the Supplemental Security Income program
Environmental Policy
Nixon created the Environmental Protection Agency and signed the National Environmental Policy Act
Vietnam War
Nixon sought a gradual withdrawal from Vietnam through 'Vietnamization' and exploited the Sino-Soviet split to improve relations with China
Détente with Soviet Union
Nixon's policy of détente led to the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks and the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty, easing tensions with the Soviet Union
The Watergate Scandal, involving a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts, led to Nixon's resignation and had a profound impact on American politics and public trust in government