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Gerald Ford House Minority Leader
After Richard Nixon's resignation, Gerald Ford decided to pardon him for any crimes related to Watergate. Ford believed that a long, drawn-out legal process would hinder the nation's healing. On September 8, 1974, he granted Nixon a full, unconditional pardon, a controversial decision that sparked significant public backlash but was motivated by Ford’s desire to move the country forward and avoid further divisions. -
Nixon Visits China
President Richard Nixon's visit to China marked the opening of diplomatic relations between the U.S. and China. This historic trip helped thaw Cold War tensions and began the process of China’s integration into the global political order. -
Paris Peace Accords
The Paris Peace Accords formally ended the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. It led to a ceasefire and the withdrawal of American troops, although the war continued between North and South Vietnam until the fall of Saigon in 1975. -
Nixon’s first vice president
Nixon’s first vice president, Spiro T. Agnew, resigned from office on October 10, 1973, amid a scandal involving corruption. Agnew was accused of accepting bribes and kickbacks during his time as governor of Maryland and vice president. He faced charges of tax evasion, and rather than face impeachment, Agnew chose to resign. -
War Powers Act
The War Powers Act was passed in response to the Vietnam War, aiming to limit the president's ability to send U.S. military forces into conflict without Congressional approval. It required the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing troops and set a 60-day limit on military engagement without Congressional consent. -
General Ford vice president
After Agnew's resignation, Nixon had the responsibility to appoint a new vice president. Under the 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the president can nominate a new vice president, who must then be confirmed by a majority vote in both houses of Congress. Nixon nominated Gerald Ford, who was then the House Minority Leader, and Ford was confirmed by both the House and Senate in a historic vote. -
General Ford President
Gerald Ford became president in 1974 after Richard Nixon's resignation due to the Watergate scandal. Ford had been serving as vice president, having been appointed following Spiro T. Agnew's resignation in 1973. When Nixon stepped down on August 9, 1974, Ford, as vice president, automatically assumed the presidency, becoming the 38th President of the United States. -
Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was a critical Cold War moment. The U.S. supported Afghan resistance forces, providing arms and training to counter Soviet influence in the region, further escalating tensions between the superpowers.