American Lessons
The 1960's was a time of numerous movements, and conflicts in American history. From Nixon and the "Watergate Scandal", to exetensive executive power Americans should take note so they can change and learn from their past American history.
United States' thirty seventh president, Lyndon Baines Johnson, was in office during a crucial time in U.S. History, The Vietnam War. During his term as president(1963-1969) Johnson had no limits on his executive power, well in war areas. Being a keen supporter of the " domino theory," Johnson sent hundred of thousands soldiers to Vietnam, having a forceful mind-set against the Viet-Cong and the "conflict" in general. Knowing it wouldn't be a popular choice upon the Americans, Johnson took the risk anyway. Later, announcing he will not run for re-election(March 1968). Through Johnson actions, the Americans were cognizant that that the power of the executive branch should be minimized. In 1973, the Congreess passed the War Powers Act in order to reestablish the policies and limits on executive power. This new act required the president to inform congress of any commitment of troops abroad within 48 hours, congress approval is needed in order to permit the troops to go; prevailing that the U.S has surely learned from their past experiences.
Right at the start of re-elections, Nixon partook in something that will never be left un-noted, Watergate. For anyone who is un- equainted with the Watergate it is a office complex in Washington D.C. , in which, Nixon approved a break-in to retrieve the Democratic National Commitee's plans for the up-coming elections. The scandal only took a short amount of time for it to be tracked up to president Nixon. Even though Nixon did great things during his presidency, unfortunately, Watergate overpowered his career. With this scandal now weighing quite heavily on his shoulders, he was left with no other option but to resign. Watergate couldn't have been placed in a worse time frame. With the Vietnam "Conflict" winding down , and now the Watergate scandal, Americans significantly became more wary of their leaders intentions. From this scandal one can presume that our nations future leaders should strive to be honest, and stay true to rules and obligations one must obtain as president.
Right at the start of re-elections, Nixon partook in something that will never be left un-noted, Watergate. For anyone who is un- equainted with the Watergate it is a office complex in Washington D.C. , in which, Nixon approved a break-in to retrieve the Democratic National Commitee's plans for the up-coming elections. The scandal only took a short amount of time for it to be tracked up to president Nixon. Even though Nixon did great things during his presidency, unfortunately, Watergate overpowered his career. With this scandal now weighing quite heavily on his shoulders, he was left with no other option but to resign. Watergate couldn't have been placed in a worse time frame. With the Vietnam "Conflict" winding down , and now the Watergate scandal, Americans significantly became more wary of their leaders intentions. From this scandal one can presume that our nations future leaders should strive to be honest, and stay true to rules and obligations one must obtain as president.
Through an over-suficient amount of power in the executive branch, and Nixon's involvement in the Watergate Scandal one can see that Americans and political leaders have learned from America's past history. Whether it be a new law being passed or a tip for future presidents, one can analyze that America's history is full of a plethora of mistakes. But, with mistakes comes amazing achievements if one is open to learn and improve.
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