Gould Library

On November 17, 1973 Richard Nixon declared, “I am not a crook!” on national television. Less than a year later the president faced a choice: resign or be impeached.

This exhibit presents a selection of reports and evidence used to establish the facts during the Watergate era. Drawn from Gould Library’s archives and government documents, these materials represent a small fraction of the effort made to uncover the truth.

Curated by Patrick Wigent ‘19

Curator's Statement:

On November 17, 1973, embroiled in special prosecutor and Congressional investigations, Richard Nixon declared, “I am not a crook!” on national television. It was, however, too late for spin. Less than a year later, the Supreme Court, Congress, and the American people had concluded almost unanimously that Nixon would either have to resign or be impeached. Today, such widespread, bipartisan condemnation a politician seems all but impossible.

As we find ourselves in the midst of another criminal investigation of a sitting president, reminding ourselves of the possibility and necessity of establishing political facts is a vital exercise. This exhibit presents the reports and evidence used to establish the facts of the Watergate scandal by federal and congressional investigators. While these documents are not evidence of perfect impartiality, they do represent a genuine and valuable effort to uncover the truth.

Special thanks to Tom Lamb, College Archivist, and Nat Wilson, Digital Archivist.