Richard Nixon's political career ascended to great heights with his election as the 37th President of the United States in 1968, where he played a pivotal role in pioneering relations with China and achieving a breakthrough in the Vietnam War with the policy of Vietnamization. However, his presidency took a dramatic turn when the Watergate scandal unfolded, exposing a complex web of political espionage, obstruction of justice, and abuse of power. The ensuing investigations, congressional hearings, and release of incriminating tapes led to Nixon's resignation in 1974, making him the only U.S. president to resign from office. The Watergate scandal left a lasting impact on American politics, leading to significant reforms and heightened scrutiny of presidential conduct.
