The Presidents Nixon Admired: A Deep Dive into His Political Mentors

Richard Nixon, the thirty-seventh President of the United States, was a highly complex figure whose political visions and policies have been subjects of intense scrutiny. Among his many influences, two presidents in particular caught his admiration: Dwight Eisenhower and Theodore Roosevelt (TR).

Eisenhower: The Mentor Figure

The foundation of Nixon's political career was laid during his time as a deputy director in the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover. However, it was Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of Allied Forces during World War II and the 34th President of the United States, who emerged as a mentor figure in Nixon's life. Nixon developed a strong respect for the Eisenhower administration and its clear, decisive leadership style. The 1950s, a period when Eisenhower was in office, is often remembered as a time of relative stability in American politics. This era, however, belied a deeper societal transformation that was shaping the nation's future.

The 1950s: An Era of Surface Stability

While the 1950s were characterized by a public appearance of stability and prosperity, beneath the surface lay a volcano of change. The rise of television in homes across America allowed for the direct dissemination of political events and investigations. Notable TV events of this time included the investigations conducted by the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) and the Senate hearings, known as the Kefauver hearings, which focused on the Teamsters and the Mafia.

Political Developments and Television

The introduction of television changed the way people received and processed information, rendering previous political and social dynamics obsolete. The Censure hearings in 1955 and the televised Senate Kefauver hearings further emphasized the changing nature of American society. Additionally, programs like The Ugly American, The Quiet American, and novels by authors like Upton Sinclair and Sinclair Lewis, all penned during the Eisenhower era, reflected the growing awareness of America's place in the world and the country's internal struggles.

The Influence of Theodore Roosevelt (TR)

In addition to Eisenhower, Theodore Roosevelt (TR) also left a profound impact on Nixon. TR was known for his "Square Deal" policy, his strong stance against corporate monopolies, and his conservation efforts. These characteristics influenced Nixon's own political views, particularly in his later career when he championed causes such as consumer protection and anti-trust laws.

The Transition and Nixon's Presidency

During the 1960s, the political landscape underwent dramatic changes. The election of John F. Kennedy in 1960 marked a significant shift, with Kennedy's youthful charm and eloquence contrasting sharply with Nixon's more subdued demeanor. Nixon's flat and laconic style did not resonate as well with the public, leading to a defeat in the 1962 gubernatorial election in California. This defeat seemed to mark the end of Nixon's political career.

Rebranding and Political Revival

Following his loss in 1962, Nixon underwent a significant transformation under the guidance of Roger Ailes and Herbert "Happy" R. Haldemann. Ailes, a key political strategist, played a crucial role in Nixon's political resurgence, shaping his political image and public persona. Nixon's references to TR, particularly his cowboy image, reemerged during this time, signaling a return to his roots and a more assertive political stance.

The Legacy of Nixon's Political Influences

The admiration Nixon held for Eisenhower and TR is a testament to the lasting impact these leaders had on American politics. Eisenhower's approach to governance, characterized by decisiveness and vision, provided a model for Nixon's own leadership style. Similarly, TR's emphasis on public service, consumer rights, and anti-trust laws influenced Nixon's later policies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Richard Nixon's admiration for Eisenhower and TR reflects the complex currents of American political history. While the 1950s may have seemed stable on the surface, the era of TR and Eisenhower laid the groundwork for the political landscape of the following decades. Nixon's political journey, marked by personal challenges and strategic transformations, offers valuable insights into the broader context of American politics during this tumultuous period.

References

Eisenhower: The Presidency and the People

The 1950s: A Timeline

Theodore Roosevelt: His Legacy