Richard Nixon: Political Rise, Presidency, and Watergate

Part 1: Nixon’s Rise — From Congress to Vice Presidency

Richard Milhous Nixon’s political career began with a reputation for tenacity and anti-communism, attributes that would come to define his legacy. Born on January 9, 1913, in Yorba Linda, California, Nixon served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before launching his political career in 1946. His rapid rise — from U.S. Representative to Senator, and then to Vice President under Dwight D. Eisenhower — was unprecedented in modern American history.

Path to the Vice Presidency

Nixon was elected to the House of Representatives in 1946 and quickly gained fame during the Alger Hiss case, where he played a prominent role in exposing suspected communist infiltration. His anti-communist stance won him favor with conservative voters and helped him secure a Senate seat in 1950. By 1952, Dwight D. Eisenhower selected Nixon as his running mate, valuing his youth, political sharpness, and strong stance against communism.

The Checkers Speech

During the 1952 campaign, Nixon faced allegations of a secret political fund. In response, he delivered the now-famous “Checkers Speech,” broadcast to 60 million Americans, where he emotionally defended his integrity and mentioned his family’s dog, Checkers. The public outpouring of support ensured he remained on the ticket.

Election Results: 1952 & 1956

Comparing Vice Presidential Contenders

Legacy of the Early Years

By 1960, Nixon had become one of the most experienced and well-known figures in American politics. His time as Vice President positioned him as a natural successor to Eisenhower, setting the stage for his first presidential campaign. Nixon’s early career combined staunch anti-communism, calculated political ambition, and a growing awareness of how media could influence politics. These traits would follow him throughout his complex political journey.

Part 2: The 1960 Election — Nixon vs. Kennedy

Running Mates: Henry Cabot Lodge Jr. and Lyndon B. Johnson

Election Results: A Razor-Thin Margin

Television’s Role in the 1960 Election

The first-ever televised presidential debates played a crucial role. Kennedy appeared calm, confident, and charismatic, while Nixon, recovering from illness and refusing makeup, looked pale and uncomfortable. While radio listeners believed Nixon had won, television viewers overwhelmingly favored Kennedy — showcasing the growing influence of media in American politics.

Comparing the Vice Presidential Nominees

Interesting and Lesser-Known Facts

• Nixon campaigned in all 50 states — the first major candidate to do so.
• Chicago’s Cook County was key to Kennedy’s win; many Republicans alleged voter fraud, but Nixon chose not to contest.
• The electoral map was sharply divided by region, with the South beginning its long-term shift from Democrat to Republican.

Part 3: Nixon’s Comeback — The 1968 Election and First Presidential Term

The Road to 1968

In 1968, the United States faced immense internal challenges: the Vietnam War, civil rights protests, and assassinations. Nixon presented himself as a candidate of “law and order,” appealing to the “silent majority.”

Democratic Opposition

The Democratic Party nominated Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey. His campaign was overshadowed by internal divisions and opposition to the Vietnam War.

Election Results of 1968

Vice Presidential Candidates: Background and Views