Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Today in History: Richard Nixon resigns amid Watergate scandal

8/9/2025

49 5

Summary

Story summary

On August 9, 1974, Richard Nixon resigned as the first U.S. president to do so, amid the Watergate scandal. Facing imminent impeachment due to his administration's involvement in a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts, Nixon's resignation marked a significant moment in American political history.

1 of 1

Story summary

On August 9, 1974, Richard Nixon resigned as the first U.S. president to do so, amid the Watergate scandal. Facing imminent impeachment due to his administration's involvement in a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and subsequent cover-up efforts, Nixon's resignation marked a significant moment in American political history.