Richard Nixon

Main milestones

Richard Milhous Nixon was the 37th President of the United States, serving from 1969 until his resignation in 1974. His presidency was marked by significant domestic and foreign policy achievements, but it was ultimately overshadowed by the Watergate scandal. Here is a timeline of his life and presidency, highlighting key events and milestones.

Birth of Richard Nixon

January 9, 1913

Richard Milhous Nixon was born in Yorba Linda, California, to Francis Anthony Nixon and Hannah Milhous Nixon. He would go on to become one of the most influential and controversial figures in American political history.

Vice Presidency

1953-1961

Nixon served as Vice President under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, gaining valuable experience and building his political reputation.

Inauguration as President

January 20, 1969

Richard Nixon was inaugurated as the 37th President of the United States, emphasizing his commitment to achieving 'peace with honor' in Vietnam, ending the divisiveness of the 1960s, and restoring confidence in government.

Apollo 11 Moon Landing

July 20, 1969

During Nixon's presidency, Apollo 11 successfully landed the first humans on the Moon, marking a significant milestone in space exploration and technological progress.

Founding of the Environmental Protection Agency

1970

Nixon founded the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in response to rising concerns over conservation and pollution, leading to the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and the Mammal Marine Protection Act.

Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) and Visit to China

1972

Nixon participated in the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) with Soviet Secretary General Brezhnev and became the first U.S. President to visit the People's Republic of China, issuing the Shanghai Communiqué and announcing a desire for open, normalized relations.

Paris Peace Accords

January 27, 1973

Nixon signed the Paris Peace Accords, ending U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War and marking a significant achievement in his foreign policy.

Yom Kippur War and Oil Crisis

October 1973

The Yom Kippur War led to the 1973 oil crisis, which sparked the 1970s energy crisis. Nixon supported Israel with massive aid and initiated Project Independence to end reliance on foreign oil by 1980.

Resignation

August 9, 1974

Facing almost certain impeachment for his role in the Watergate scandal, Nixon became the first American President to resign from office.

Death of Richard Nixon

April 22, 1994

Richard Nixon died in New York City, leaving behind a complex legacy of significant achievements and controversies.