Question
Here is the question : RICHARD NIXON’S FAMOUS “CHECKERS” SPEECH WAS NAMED AFTER WHAT?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- His favorite game
- The family dog
- His tie pattern
- His wife’s nickname
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
In part due to his oratory prowess, Richard Nixon rose through the political ranks. His 1952 ‘Checkers’ address, delivered before the election that would ultimately lead to his selection as Vice President under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, is widely regarded as an early example of the potential of televised political speeches to reach an audience.
Richard Nixon, the 37th President of the United States, is known for many things, including his controversial presidency, his resignation in the wake of the Watergate scandal, and his famous “Checkers” speech. But what many people may not realize is that the speech was named after Nixon’s beloved family dog.
Checkers was a black and white cocker spaniel that Nixon received as a gift during his 1952 vice presidential campaign. The dog quickly became a beloved member of the Nixon family, accompanying them on many campaign stops and public appearances. Nixon often referred to Checkers in his speeches and even used the dog’s name as a code word for various campaign activities.
In 1952, Nixon’s vice presidential campaign was threatened by allegations of financial impropriety. Specifically, there were accusations that Nixon had accepted illegal campaign contributions and used them for personal expenses. In response, Nixon delivered a televised speech on September 23, 1952, in which he addressed the accusations and defended his integrity.
During the speech, Nixon famously declared that he had never accepted a “dollar of illegal money.” He also acknowledged that he and his family were not wealthy and that they had received a gift from a supporter that had helped them purchase their family home. That gift, Nixon revealed, was Checkers.
The speech was a success, and it is credited with saving Nixon’s place on the Republican ticket. The American public was moved by Nixon’s heartfelt defense of his integrity and his willingness to be transparent about his finances. The speech also helped to humanize Nixon, showing him as a devoted family man and a dog lover.
Checkers is remembered as an important part of Nixon’s political legacy. The dog’s name has become synonymous with the famous “Checkers” speech, and it is a reminder of a time when politicians were not afraid to show their softer, more personal side. While Nixon’s presidency may be remembered for many controversies and scandals, the memory of Checkers remains a charming and endearing footnote in American political history.