The existence of the free press is what allowed the media to lead the investigation into Nixon following the Watergate scandal. Government investigations of the alleged wiretapping and secret recordings were influenced by the reporting by the media at the time. Journalists brought attention to the connection between Nixon’s re-election and the illicit activities, and their work helped bring the truth about the scandal to the public.
This is not a chronological history lesson. This lesson, instead, asks students to critically examine a historical event with which they are already familiar. Prior to this lesson, students should have a basic understanding of the Watergate scandal.
The lesson uses the following video. For additional videos, a historical timeline on the topic and more, view Moments of Truth: Watergate.