Considered a serious constitutional crisis in U.S. history.
Key Events
Firing of Archibald Cox: President Nixon fired the special Watergate prosecutor.
Resignation of Elliot Richardson: Attorney General Richardson resigned, refusing to carry out Nixon's instructions.
Refusal of William Ruckelshaus: Deputy Attorney General refused to fire Cox and was subsequently fired.
FBI Seals Offices: Following the firing, FBI agents sealed the offices of the special prosecutor, the Attorney General, and the Deputy Attorney General, acting under White House orders.
Significance
Unprecedented Situation: The president directly opposed his own Department of Justice.
Public Outcry: A massive influx of 50,000 telegrams to Capitol Hill demanded Nixon's impeachment.
Notably, many were from his supporters who felt he had gone too far.
Political Reactions: Many Republicans, businessmen, and other former supporters called for Congress to take strong action against Nixon.
Reports of phone calls overwhelmingly in favor of pursuing impeachment.
Aftermath
Impeachment Resolutions: On Tuesday, Nixon learned that 21 resolutions for his impeachment had been introduced.
Nixon’s Retreat: Due to the intense public and political reaction, Nixon appointed a new special prosecutor, Leon Jaworski, and agreed to release nine subpoenaed tapes.
Implications
The events highlight the intense, crisis-driven environment within political and public spheres.
Demonstrated the limitations of presidential power when faced with overwhelming public and political opposition.