Richard Nixon's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Richard Nixon. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Richard Nixon, the 37th U.S. President, served from 1969 until his 1974 resignation. A Republican, he previously served as a Congressman, Senator, and Vice President. His presidency is noted for ending US involvement in Vietnam, initiating détente with the Soviet Union and China, overseeing the Apollo 11 Moon landing, and creating the EPA and OSHA. He resigned amidst the Watergate scandal, becoming the only U.S. president to do so.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

June 1937: Nixon Graduates from Duke University School of Law

In June 1937, Richard Nixon graduated third in his class from Duke University School of Law.

October 1, 1943: Nixon Promoted to Lieutenant

On October 1, 1943, Richard Nixon was promoted to lieutenant in the Navy.

January 1945: Nixon Transferred to Bureau of Aeronautics Office

In January 1945, Richard Nixon was transferred to the Bureau of Aeronautics office in Philadelphia.

October 3, 1945: Nixon Promoted to Lieutenant Commander

On October 3, 1945, Richard Nixon was promoted to lieutenant commander in the Navy.

1946: Nixon returns to Whittier and begins campaigning

In 1946, after leaving the Navy, Nixon and his wife returned to Whittier. He began a year of intensive campaigning, successfully winning the election against Jerry Voorhis.

May 19, 1948: House passes the Mundt-Nixon Bill

On May 19, 1948, the Mundt-Nixon Bill passed the House by a vote of 319 to 58, marking Nixon's first significant victory in Congress, although it later failed in the Senate.

August 1948: Nixon gains national attention in the Alger Hiss spy case

In August 1948, Nixon gained national attention as a member of the House Un-American Activities Committee by helping break the Alger Hiss spy case, pressing for the investigation to continue despite doubts.

September 23, 1952: The Checkers Speech

On September 23, 1952, Nixon delivered the "Checkers speech" on television to address allegations of a political fund, emotionally defending himself and leading to a surge of public support and Eisenhower's decision to keep him on the ticket.

June 1, 1953: Nixon Promoted to Commander in U.S. Naval Reserve

On June 1, 1953, Richard Nixon was promoted to commander in the U.S. Naval Reserve.

November 1956: Eisenhower and Nixon reelected

In November 1956, Eisenhower and Nixon were reelected by a comfortable margin, securing Nixon's second term as Vice President.

1966: Campaigning in Congressional Elections

In 1966, Richard Nixon campaigned for many Republicans in the congressional elections, seeking to regain seats lost in the Johnson landslide. Nixon was credited with helping Republicans win major electoral gains that year.

1968: Nixon Wins Presidential Election

In 1968, Richard Nixon ran again for the presidency and defeated the Democratic candidate, Vice President Hubert Humphrey.

July 20, 1969: Apollo 11 Moon Landing

On July 20, 1969, the United States successfully landed astronauts on the Moon with Apollo 11. Nixon spoke with Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, calling it "the most historic phone call ever made from the White House".

September 1970: Desegregation of Schools

By September 1970, due to Nixon's administration efforts, less than ten percent of black children were attending segregated schools.

May 24, 1972: Approval of Cooperative Space Program with the Soviet Union

On May 24, 1972, Nixon approved a five-year cooperative program between NASA and the Soviet space program.

November 7, 1972: Nixon Reelected in Landslide Victory

On November 7, 1972, Nixon was reelected in one of the largest landslide election victories in American history, defeating McGovern with over 60 percent of the popular vote.

1972: Nixon's Visit to China and Re-election

In 1972, Nixon visited China, leading to diplomatic relations between the two nations, and he was re-elected, defeating George McGovern.

October 6, 1973: Yom Kippur War and Superpower Crisis

On October 6, 1973, an Arab coalition attacked Israel, leading to the Yom Kippur War. Nixon ordered an airlift to resupply Israeli losses and, following a threat from Soviet Premier Brezhnev, ordered the U.S. military to DEFCON3, bringing the world close to nuclear war.