# Richard Nixon
Who / What
Richard Milhous Nixon was the 37th President of the United States, serving from 1969 until his resignation in 1974. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as the 36th Vice President under Dwight D. Eisenhower and represented California in Congress.
Background & History
Nixon was born on January 9, 1913, and began his political career in the U.S. House and Senate. He served as Vice President from 1953 to 1961 before being elected President in 1968. His presidency was marked by significant domestic and foreign policy events but ended with his resignation in 1974 due to the Watergate scandal.
Why Notable
Nixon's presidency is notable for achieving détente with the Soviet Union and opening relations with China, as well as overseeing the Apollo 11 Moon landing. Domestically, he established the Environmental Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. His resignation following the Watergate scandal remains a pivotal moment in American political history.
In the News
Richard Nixon's legacy continues to be analyzed in discussions of presidential power and accountability. Recent historical assessments often focus on his foreign policy achievements alongside the constitutional crisis of Watergate, ensuring his relevance in modern political discourse.