Spiro Agnew, the 39th vice president of the United States, served in the Republican administration of President Richard M. Nixon from 1969 to 1973. The son of Greek immigrants, Agnew studied law and became the governor of Maryland in 1967. Known for his abrasive speeches denouncing political opponents, he was despised by many Democrats and even drew criticism from some Republicans.
Agnew’s downfall began in 1973 when he was investigated for extortion, bribery, and income-tax violations relating to his time as governor. Faced with federal indictments, he initially fought the charges but eventually resigned the vice presidency on October 10, 1973. He pleaded nolo contendere to a single count of failing to report income on his tax return and was fined $10,000.
Despite his resignation and conviction, Agnew continued to defend his political career in his book “Go Quietly…or Else” published in 1980. After being disbarred by the state of Maryland in 1974, he later worked as a consultant to foreign business concerns.
Spiro Agnew’s resignation marked a significant moment in American political history as the second person to resign the vice presidency and the first to do so under duress. His legacy continues to be one of controversy and scandal, overshadowing his achievements as governor of Maryland.
Source
Photo credit www.britannica.com