An age of limits
major changes
- In the previous generation, and pretty much most of the generations from FDR on have increased the government's federal power in relation to the states. During the Nixon era, however, we see significant devolution as his New Federalism attempts to return powers.
- Integration is slowed. The presidents that have been in office may not have supported the Civil Rights Movement, but they always have answered the call for equality. Nixon, however, is the first president to attempt to slow the integration progress down publicly.
- Nixon attempts to make peace with old enemies. Unlike other presidents, Nixon flies to other countries such as Russia and China and secures peace with leaders face-to-face.
core american values |
- Patriotism: After Nixon's scandal, a credibility gap was formed and many people lost faith in their government. With the election of Jimmy Carter, a Washington Outsider, the faith in the government was restored and Patriotism boomed yet again.
- Economic Help: While Nixon was president, he faced an economic crisis, caused by stagflation. In an effort to lower inflation and therefore help out the general public, Nixon raised taxes and lowered spending.
- Hope: Although President Carter did not have many famous policies, his help with the Camp David Accords restored a lot of hope in Americans. We were facing a energy crisis due to oil embargoes and many people lost hope. With the problem solved, many were happy that they could now afford to put gas in their tank and drive to work.