Watergate Remembered

As the fortieth anniversary of the Nixon resignation approaches, it is time to take a fresh look at Watergate's impact on the American political system and to consider its significance for the historical reputation of the president indelibly associated with it.

'This collection of excellent analyses reminds us that Watergate was much more than an illegal break-in; the 'White House horrors' included financial corruption, illegal wiretaps, suborning perjury, abuse of power, obstruction of justice, and undermining the electoral process. For those who remember Watergate, the collection provides a stark reminder of the turbulent times that led to the resignation of Richard Nixon. For those who are too young to remember Watergate, it provides an in-depth case study of the tragedy that Richard Nixon inflicted upon himself and the country. The essays in this book are not merely of historical interest; they trace the ripples of Watergate through the past 40 years and reveal the broader ramifications of this defining episode in twentieth century American history. Anyone interested in American politics will learn much from this book.' - James P. Pfiffner, George Mason University

'In this book, leading American and British scholars demonstrate Watergate's lasting impact upon American politics and national institutions. The scandal reshaped the separation of powers, campaign finance law, presidential war powers, and the president's relationship with the public. Its effects reached far into American culture and media. The book's thoughtful contributors illuminate the scandal as one of the signal events in American political history. It is essential reading for students of American politics, history, and the American presidency.' - Steve Schier, Congdon Professor of Political Science, Carleton College

"Brimming with insights relevant to today's politics, Genovese and Morgan deliver an engaging volume on Watergate and its institutional legacy. With noted scholars from both sides of the Atlantic contributing to the intellectual exchange, the lessons from this American presidential crisis echo loudly and rather ominously across the book's pages. More than once, readers are asked to consider downside of the political system's separation of powers. Despite its focus on a series of events which happened over forty years ago, this thoughtfully edited volume more deeply explores the timeless and salient questions about governmental power.' - Lara M. Brown, Villanova University

Iwan W. Morgan is a Professor of US Studies and Head of US Programmes at the Institute of the Americas, University College London, UK.