Spiro Agnew was a significant figure in American political history. As the 39th Vice President of the United States, he played an essential role during the administration of President Richard Nixon from 1969 to 1973. For educators seeking to enlighten students about his life, legacy, and impact on US politics, this article will provide essential guidance for an engaging and informative discussion.
Early Life and Career
Begin teaching about Spiro Agnew by explaining his early life and career journey. Born in Baltimore, Maryland in 1918, Agnew was of Greek descent. He had initially pursued a career in law but joined the US Army during World War II. After rising through the ranks and forging a military career, he completed his law degree after the war at the University of Baltimore School of Law.
In 1951, Agnew entered politics as a Republican candidate by running for Baltimore County Council. He later became the Baltimore County Executive and eventually won the race for Maryland Governor in 1966. Discussing these milestones allows your students to understand how Agnew rose through various levels of public office before making his mark on national politics.
Vice Presidency under Richard Nixon
Students interested in US history will likely be familiar with President Richard Nixon and his administration. Teach your students about how Nixon chose Agnew as his running mate for the 1968 election because Agnew was considered politically centrist and had a strong track record on civil rights. As Vice President, Agnew became known for his harsh criticism of anti-war protestors and individuals he deemed “un-American.” This perspective resonated with many conservative Americans at the time but also generated controversy.
Controversy: Resignation and Criminal Charges
A crucial part of teaching about Spiro Agnew is discussing his resignation from office due to criminal charges. In 1973, Agnew pleaded “no contest” to charges of tax evasion. These charges were related to alleged bribes received while he held offices in Maryland. Agnew resigned as Vice President, and Gerald Ford replaced him, marking a significant moment in American political history.
Legacy and How It Relates to Today
As you conclude your lesson plan on Spiro Agnew, it’s essential to discuss his lasting impact and how his actions continue to resonate in contemporary American politics. The manner of Agnew’s resignation set a precedent for further investigations into political figures at the highest levels of government.
Moreover, Agnew’s divisive rhetoric can be seen as an early example of the kind of polarized language that has come to characterize modern American political discourse. Encourage your students to think critically about these themes and draw their own conclusions regarding Spiro Agnew’s legacy and continued influence on the US political landscape.
In Conclusion
Teaching students about Spiro Agnew requires providing key insights into his early life and career, vice presidency under Richard Nixon, controversial resignation, and the lasting effects of his actions on American politics. By addressing these topics, educators can offer students a well-rounded understanding of this pivotal figure in US history.
