Gerald R. Ford, who became President of the United States in 1974 after Richard M. Nixon resigned as a result of the Watergate scandal, has died at age 93.
Ford was a fairly mild-mannered president. One of his few highly controversial acts was his presidential pardon of Richard Nixon, which occurred less than a month after Ford took office.
During Ford's presidency, the press, political enemies, and comedians mercilessly depicted Ford as clumsy after a few well-publicized incidents like slipping on the steps while exiting Air Force One.
While Gerald Ford was president, Democrats held control of both the House and Senate. In the winter of 1975, when Communist forces began to sweep over South Vietnam and Cambodia after the withdrawal of most American forces, Ford sought additional American aid from Congress but was refused, resulting in the fall of Saigon to the communists.
Ford survived two assassination attempts within a few weeks of each other in late 1975, which serves as a reminder that the Presidency is never an easy job and often is a dangerous one.
Ford ran for re-election in 1976 but was defeated by Democrat Jimmy Carter.
Ford's wife Betty is famous for having founded the Betty Ford Center for treatment of substance abuse after she sought treatment herself for substance abuse in 1978.
For a fairly detailed and interesting biography of Gerald Ford, check out the Encyclopedia of the American Presidency.
If you want to know more about Gerald Ford, additional coverage will be everywhere today, including this from the Washington Post
It is always a sad day when a previous President passes. Reminds you that the United States organized government is what helps us stay united and intact.
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