AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: 1970s Political Scandals (Day 290/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about 1970s Political Scandals as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

“I Am Not A Crook,” Library of Congress

The 1970s in the United States were marked by a series of political scandals that rocked the nation and eroded public trust in government institutions. 

Time Magazine Pentagon Papers Cover, Wikimedia Commons

The leaking of the Pentagon Papers, detailing how the government had misled the public about the Vietnam War, contributed to public skepticism.

Agnew Resignation, New York Times

The resignation of Vice President Spiro Agnew in 1973 due to charges of bribery and tax evasion added to the sense of political turmoil and dishonesty. 

Nixon Resignation, Wikimedia Commons

The Watergate scandal revealed widespread corruption and abuse of power within the Nixon administration, leading to his resignation, and exposed a culture of political misconduct and cover-ups at the highest levels of government. 

“Taped,” Library of Congress

The revelation of illegal activities by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), including domestic surveillance and covert operations, further added to the sense of political turmoil during the decade.

These scandals led to a period of intense scrutiny of government officials and institutions which had lasting implications for American politics and public discourse.

Join me tomorrow as I explain 1970s Foreign Policy Crises in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!