Presidency of Gerald Ford

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The presidency of Gerald Ford began on August 9, 1974, when Gerald Ford became the 38th president of the United States following the resignation of Richard Nixon, and ended on January 20, 1977. Ford, a member of the Republican Party, had served as the 40th Vice President of the United States from 1973 to 1974. His presidency is notable for the pardon of Richard Nixon, the Helsinki Accords, and the fall of Saigon.

Assumption of Office

Ford assumed the presidency following the resignation of Richard Nixon in the wake of the Watergate scandal. He is the only person to have served as both vice president and president without being elected to either office by the Electoral College.

Domestic Policy

Ford's domestic policy was marked by his attempts to curb inflation, which he saw as the nation's primary economic threat. He introduced the Whip Inflation Now (WIN) campaign, which encouraged personal savings and disciplined spending habits. However, the campaign was largely ineffective, and the country experienced a recession during his tenure.

Pardon of Richard Nixon

One of Ford's most controversial acts was his decision to grant a full and unconditional pardon to Richard Nixon for any crimes he might have committed against the United States while president. This decision was highly unpopular and is believed to have contributed to Ford's loss in the 1976 United States presidential election.

Foreign Policy

Ford's foreign policy was characterized by a continuation of the détente policy with the Soviet Union initiated by his predecessors. He signed the Helsinki Accords, which were a major step in reducing tensions between the Eastern and Western blocs.

Fall of Saigon

In April 1975, the Vietnam War came to a close with the fall of Saigon. Ford ordered the evacuation of American personnel and at-risk South Vietnamese, an operation known as Operation Frequent Wind.

1976 Presidential Election

Ford sought election to a full term in 1976 but was defeated by Jimmy Carter. His campaign was hampered by a tough primary challenge from Ronald Reagan and the lingering unpopularity of his pardon of Nixon.

Legacy

Ford's presidency is often viewed as a transitional period in American history. He is credited with helping to restore public confidence in the government after the Watergate scandal, but his administration faced significant economic challenges and political opposition.

Related Pages

• Gerald Ford
• Richard Nixon
• Watergate scandal
• Helsinki Accords
• Fall of Saigon
• 1976 United States presidential election
• Jimmy Carter