Spiro Agnew

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Spiro Theodore Agnew (November 9, 1918 – September 17, 1996) was the 39th Vice President of the United States, serving from 1969 to 1973 under President Richard Nixon. He is notable for being the second Vice President in U.S. history to resign from office, and the only one to do so due to criminal charges.

Early Life and Education

Agnew was born in Baltimore, Maryland, to a Greek immigrant father and an American mother. He attended Johns Hopkins University and later graduated from the University of Baltimore School of Law.

Military Service

During World War II, Agnew served in the United States Army, where he saw combat in Europe. He was recalled to active duty during the Korean War.

Political Career

Agnew's political career began in local politics. He served as the Baltimore County Executive from 1962 to 1966. In 1966, he was elected as the Governor of Maryland, where he served until 1969.

Vice Presidency

Agnew was selected as Nixon's running mate in the 1968 United States presidential election. As Vice President, he was known for his outspoken criticism of the media and opponents of the Nixon administration. He was re-elected in the 1972 United States presidential election.

Resignation

In 1973, Agnew was investigated for charges of extortion, tax fraud, bribery, and conspiracy. He pleaded no contest to tax evasion and resigned from the vice presidency on October 10, 1973. He was succeeded by Gerald Ford.

Later Life

After his resignation, Agnew retired from politics and worked as an international trade executive. He wrote a memoir and several novels. Agnew passed away on September 17, 1996, in Berlin, Maryland.

Legacy

Agnew's resignation marked a significant moment in U.S. political history, highlighting issues of political corruption and accountability.

Related Pages

• Richard Nixon
• Gerald Ford
• 1968 United States presidential election
• 1972 United States presidential election
• Governor of Maryland
• Vice President of the United States