#63 Ch.24.2 Notes Watergate OBJECTIVE: Understand the causes and effects of the Watergate Scandal.
The Drive Toward Reelection June 1972: Committee to Reelect the President breaks into Democratic Party headquarters at Watergate complex in Washington, DC. Watergate scandal is Nixon’s administration’s attempt to cover up break-in. Washington Post reporters link administration to break-in.
Startling Testimony Ex-White House Counsel John Dean declares Nixon involved in cover-up. Presidential aide Alexander Butterfield says Nixon tapes presidential conversations.
Nixon Releases the Tapes Spring 1974: Nixon releases 1,254 pages of edited transcripts. July 24, 1974: Supreme Court orders Nixon to surrender all tapes.
The President Resigns July 27, 1974: 3 articles of impeachment are approved: 1) obstruction of justice 2) abuse of power 3) contempt of Congress Nixon releases tapes; shows knowledge of administration’s role in burglary and cover-up. Before House votes on impeachment, Nixon resigns August 8, 1974.
Watergate Conclusion One-paragraph response: Do you feel there was sufficient evidence to justify impeachment and removal of President Nixon? Justify your answer with details.