Ep 2. United States vs. Nixon

The Seventies is a documentary-style television show that explores one of the most controversial, transformative, and exciting decades in American history. With archive footage, interviews with historians, and personal anecdotes from people who were there, the show provides a comprehensive look at the social, political, and cultural events that defined the United States during the 1970s. In season 1 episode 2, titled "United States vs. Nixon," the show examines one of the biggest political scandals in American history: the Watergate scandal.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the Watergate scandal, explaining how a group of men broke into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington D.C. in 1972. The burglary was initially dismissed as a minor event, but as more evidence came to light, it became clear that the break-in was part of a much larger campaign of political espionage and sabotage. The episode then goes on to explore the legal battle that ensued, culminating in the landmark case of United States vs. Nixon.

The episode features interviews with legal experts, including Jules Witcover, a journalist and author who covered the Watergate scandal, and John Dean, who served as White House counsel under President Nixon and played a key role in exposing the scandal. They provide valuable insight into the legal wrangling that took place, including Nixon's attempts to block the release of tapes that could incriminate him and his administration.

The episode also features archival footage of the key players in the scandal, including President Nixon himself. Viewers get a glimpse into the tactics that Nixon and his allies used to try to cover up their involvement in the scandal, including the infamous "Saturday Night Massacre," in which Nixon fired several high-profile officials who refused to carry out his orders.

Throughout the episode, the show explores the impact that the Watergate scandal had on American society and politics. It highlights the erosion of trust in government that resulted from the scandal, as well as the growing sense of disillusionment and cynicism among the American people. The episode also touches on the role that the media played in exposing the scandal, with reporters like Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein of the Washington Post playing a key role in uncovering the truth.

Overall, "United States vs. Nixon" is a fascinating look at one of the defining moments of the 1970s. It sheds light on the complex legal battle that took place, as well as the broader social and political impact of the Watergate scandal. The episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in American history, politics, or culture, and is a testament to the power of documentary storytelling to illuminate the past and help us make sense of the present.