The Watergate scandal in the United States primarily centered around the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up by the Nixon administration. It revealed widespread abuse of power, illegal activities, and efforts to obstruct justice. The scandal unfolded when investigations uncovered that the White House had attempted to sabotage political opponents and mislead the American public. This ultimately led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974, as well as significant reforms in campaign finance laws and governmental oversight in an effort to restore public trust in government institutions.