Republican reaction: the Nixon Presidency, 1968–1974 (A-level only) study guide

Study Guide: The Nixon Presidency (1968–1974)

1. The Presidential Election of 1968

• Context: Understand the social and political climate leading to the election.
• Key Factors: Explore the divisions within the Democratic Party and how Nixon's campaign strategies appealed to various voter demographics.

2. Nixon's Domestic Policies

• Conservative Restoration: Examine Nixon's efforts to implement conservative social policies and the impact on various social movements.
• Economic Changes: Analyze the end of the post-war economic boom and Nixon's responses to economic challenges.

3. Foreign Policy and the Vietnam War

• Peace Negotiations: Investigate Nixon's approach to ending the Vietnam War and the implications of his policies in Cambodia.
• Kissinger's Influence: Assess the role of Henry Kissinger in shaping U.S. foreign policy towards the USSR, Latin America, and China.

4. The Watergate Affair

• Events Leading to Watergate: Outline the key events that led to the scandal and Nixon's eventual resignation.
• Aftermath and Legacy: Discuss the role of Congress in the investigation and the long-term effects on American political trust.

Study Tips

• Create timelines of key events to visualize the sequence of Nixon's presidency.
• Engage in discussions or debates about Nixon's policies to deepen understanding.
• Practice writing essays that evaluate Nixon's impact on American history.