President Richard Nixon resigns, August 9, 1974
The scandal that would bring down a president began over two years earlier, on June 1, 1972. Nixon’s reelection campaign conducted political espionage against the Democrats. Burglars attempting to plant listening devices at the Democrats’ office in the Watergate Hotel were arrested, and the operation ultimately was uncovered. Throughout 1973, the evidence that Nixon funded acts of political espionage and engaged in a cover-up grew, until the House Judiciary Committee filed three articles of impeachment against him. By August 1974, it is clear he has no other choice. After an anguished night, he signs a letter of resignation.