On June 17, 1972, five men were famously arrested for attempting to break into the offices of the Democratic National Committee in Washington D.C. The events that transpired later became one of the most notorious political scandals in the American history, for which Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, was ultimately forced to resign from office. This highly controversial episode has been interpreted and analyzed for decades, each attempt unveiling more intriguing details associated with it.
John A. Farrell, an American journalist, author, and columnist, presents an enlightening perspective of the events in his biography of Richard Nixon, “Richard Nixon: The Life”. Through carefully woven journalistic evidence, Farrell presents a unique look into how the political scandal unfolded while exploring the life of a man who was seen as both a victor and a casualty.
Farrell follows the timeline of Nixon’s life, starting with his childhood in Whittier, California, through his college years at Whittier College, and his subsequent law career. Farrell also delves into the politician’s formative years, including his work in Congress, his campaign for the Presidency, and his central role in the Watergate Scandal. The author takes this account one step further, further exploring Nixon’s career following his disgraceful resignation and providing the historical context needed to fully comprehend his accomplishments and his shortcomings.
With access to previously unpublished audio-recordings, new scholarship, and hi never-before-seen private correspondences, Farrell is able to bring to life the complex human behind the history-making events. With a relentless drive to uncover the motivations that prompted Nixon to engage in the secret missions and affairs that ultimately ruined his presidency, Farrell is able to provide a well-rounded look at the polarizing figure.
Through Farrell’s examination of Nixon’s life, readers are able to gain a new understanding of the man behind some of the United States’ most momentous chapters. While chronicles of the Nixon’s accomplishments such as the opening of China and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency certainly receive their due attention, Farrell does not shy away from discussing Nixon’s actions that have been often criticized—such as Supreme Court appointments and the notorious invasion of Cambodia. Farrell’s narrative allows readers to engage with the biographical events that have shaped our nation and to ponder the implications of such events for both the past and the present.
Richard Nixon: The Life by John A. Farrell is a thorough examination of a man of innumerable complexities whose actions drastically influenced U.S. politics and international relations during his time in office. By utilizing an unparalleled level of access to the rich and varied stories of Nixon’s life, Farrell is able to provide an engaging look at the 37th president, showcasing both the best and worst of his character and revealing how he became an unforgettable figure. Perfect for first-time readers of the Watergate Scandal, Richard Nixon: The Life is sure to provide an illuminating perspective of a man whose decisions and actions made history and remain as relevant today as they were then.
