Unit 7 Section 7 The Nixon Presidency TYWL: Global interaction may be caused by conflict. / Forces of imperialism, nationalism, militarism and geo-political alliances, taken to the extreme, can lead to international conflicts. / Nationalism and the quest for power are often underlying causes for war. / Conflict occurs when compromise over land, national identity and colonial possessions is no longer an option between those in authority and those they serve. /

New Conservatism Nixon elected in 1968 Programs: New Federalism: Reduce size of federal government by giving power to state and local governments. Includes revenue sharing. Cuts some programs, enhances others as compromise with Democrats Welfare Reform: Attempted to cut welfare via Family Assistance Plan. Bill defeated.

Law and Order Politics Nixon claims “silent majority” of Americans oppose upheavals in society Promises to “restore order” Used full power of his office – sometimes illegally – to accomplish his goals

Southern Strategy Nixon already eyeing re-election Hopes to attract Conservative Southern Democrats with Southern Strategy Slows integration – in violation of Brown v. Board Opposes Swann v. Charlotte, 1971 – forced integration of schools via busing Able to appoint seven Supreme Court Justices – moves court in more conservative direction

Economy Nixon faces difficult economic situation 1967-73 – Period of Stagflation Stagflation: High inflation and High Unemployment. Caused by deficit spending. 1973 Oil Embargo by OPEC causes gasoline prices to quadruple Nixon freezes wages and prices for 90 days – temporary solution

Foreign Policy Triumphs Nixon and Kissinger practice foreign policy based on REALPOLITIK Realpolitik – foreign policy based solely on realities of power taking no account of ideals or moral beliefs. Break with strict policy of isolation of communist nations practiced in containment Détente – Policy of easing Cold War tensions Nixon shocks world by recognizing and visiting China in 1972 SALT Treaty with Soviets limits ICBM’s

Watergate Affair Nixon had extended power of Presidency throughout term – “imperial President” 1972 Election – group of burglars including members of Committee to Reelect the President (CRP) are caught breaking in to Democratic campaign headquarters at Watergate Hotel

Aftermath Story is broken by Washington Post reporters Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein Nixon is reelected; 1973, one burglar talks Nixon’s aids resign, special prosecutor assigned Senate investigation – Nixon accused of cover up by destroying tapes Saturday Night Massacre – Nixon fires Attorney General and Deputy for refusing to fire special prosecutor

Resignation US v. Nixon, 1974 White House releases tapes, but heavily edited “I am not a crook” House begins Impeachment process – Nixon resigns Growing cynicism in America over trust in the government