Richard Nixon
- Elected 37th President in 1968
- Promised to end the Vietnam war
- Pulled troops but increased bombing campaign, implemented Vietnamization
- Began a policy of Détente to lessen Cold War tensions
- Resigned after being implemented in Watergate scandal, 1972
Détente (A Relaxation of Tension)
- Reasons why U.S. sought détente:
- Nuclear and Strategic Parity - The Russians had caught the U.S. in most military areas (caused them to want to think of other options)
- Early Success:
- Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (limit the spread of Nuclear weapons) Signed by Johnson in 1968 (France and China do not sign it)
- Many, like Henry Kissinger, felt détente was just a new form of containment
Ostpolitik
- German for 'east politics'
- Western German leader Willy Brandt wished to unite the Germanys
- Wanted improved relations between the two
- 1972 a Basic Treaty was signed with East Germany
- Accused of selling out to the communist East Germany, others see it as another détente move
Summary
Reconciliation was the first goal set by President Richard M. Nixon. The Nation was painfully divided, with turbulence in the cities and war overseas. During his Presidency, Nixon succeeded in ending American fighting in Viet Nam and improving relations with the U.S.S.R. and China. But the Watergate scandal brought fresh divisions to the country and ultimately led to his resignation.His election in 1968 had climaxed a career unusual on two counts: his early success and his comeback after being defeated for President in 1960 and for Governor of California in 1962.