History Civil Rights Nixon and Watergate

What were the reasons for the Watergate scandal?

1- Nixon’s desire to secure re-election

2- Steal opponent intelligence for campaign

3- Spread false info

4- Attempted to cover up which led to more illegal activity

What were the key features of the Watergate scandal?

The break

What was the impact of Watergate on Nixon?

Forced to resign in August 1974 to avoid impeachment; first US president to resign.

What was the impact of Watergate on US politics?

Increased distrust of politicians, stronger checks on presidential power, and new transparency laws.

What was the War Powers Act (1973)?

A law limiting the president’s power to send troops without Congress’s approval.

What was the Election Campaign Act (1974)?

Set rules on campaign funding to prevent abuses like those seen in Watergate.

What was the Privacy Act (1974)?

Gave people the right to access records held by the government about them.

What was the Congressional Budget Control Act (1974)?

Gave Congress more control over the federal budget, reducing presidential power.

Who was Gerald Ford and what did he do after Nixon resigned?

Ford became president and controversially pardoned Nixon for any crimes he may have committed.