Tricky Dick, because he was in office during a very interesting time.
Is that ironic? Because LBJ and Nixon were actually not that different from each other in terms of personality. Even not in policy, as Tricky Dick kept the Great Society and added new programs, with the environment in particular.
The Johnson-Nixon era was the worst era in modern American history to me(post-WWII). I am somewhat surprised that someone who likes the era also likes the Ford-Carter ideology.
Well, I disagree with that. For sure, LBJ had flaws; like every president. From today's perspective, he should have never gone into Vietnam, though he actually only contined what Ike and JFK had begun. But I'm sure that he would have ended the war (or the US involvement) much sooner, had he been reelected in 1968. They were inches away from a treaty in late 1968, but these talks were sabotaged by the Nixon camp (Anna Chenault). Nevertheless, LBJ was a very efficient and able president, as he passed the most far-reaching reforms in a long time. Ended racial segregation, protected voting rights, the Housing Act for blacks, appointed blacks to cabinet and Supreme Court, implemented health care, federal funding for eduction including Head Start, consumer protection and so on. He was able to pass everything JFK only wanted, but couldn't get done. He's actually a very misunderstood and complex figure. But a very interesting in my opinion.
The irony with Nixon is, that his polices in most cases weren't so poor. He eased tensions with the communist block and negotiated good treaties. In domestic affairs, he also had some accomplishments like environmental protection. His biggest enemy, however, was himself with his paranoia. Though I'm not a fan of him, I acknowledge that he was a talented politician and that his presidency had not only lows, but also highs. He is, in my opinion, a very interesting character though.
Ford has my respect for restoring trust to the government after Watergate and his fiscal conservative/socially liberal policies. Carter's presidency was not that bright, but I respect this man for his commitment to social causes.
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