5. The Watergate Scandal (1972-1974)
In 1972, members of President Richard Nixon’s re-election campaign were arrested for breaking into the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate complex in Washington, D.C. Nixon’s administration attempted to cover up its involvement, leading to extensive investigations, the indictment of numerous officials, and ultimately Nixon’s resignation in 1974. The scandal heightened demands for government transparency and led to reforms in campaign finance and executive accountability, profoundly impacting the American justice system. (history.com)
