The historic event in 1974 that led to the resignation of U.S. President Richard Nixon was the Watergate Scandal. Following revelations of a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up attempts by Nixon's administration, public trust eroded. The scandal unveiled serious abuses of power, leading to investigations and hearings. Faced with imminent impeachment, Nixon became the first U.S. president to resign, profoundly shaping the political landscape and prompting reforms in campaign finance and government accountability.