Essential Chronology
When Was the Watergate Scandal?
The Watergate Scandal was a major scandal that occurred in the 1970s following a break-in at the Democratic National Convention headquarters at the Watergate office complex in DC. Below are some of the major events that occurred following the initial break-in.
June, 1972 | Break-in of DNC Offices in Watergate Hotel |
September, 1972 | Seven Burglars indicted, including Howard Hunt, Gordon Liddy and James McCord |
January, 1973 | All Defendants pled guilty or were convicted after trial |
February, 1973 | Senate Ervin Committee established |
March, 1973 | Break-in defendants sentenced |
McCord letter to Judge Sirica publicized | |
Dean retained Kennedy-clan counsel | |
May, 1973 | Archibald Cox appointed Special Prosecutor |
March, 1974 | Seven Cover-up Defendants indicted, including John Ehrlichman, Bob Haldeman and John Mitchell |
August, 1974 | President Nixon resigned |
September, 1974 | Nixon pardoned by President Ford |
January, 1975 | Four Defendants convicted in Cover-up trial, including Ehrlichman, Haldeman and Mitchell |
Dean freed from confinement | |
June, 1977 | Special Prosecutor closed office |
For a more thorough timeline, visit the detailed chronology page. Also, learn more about who was involved in the Watergate Scandal.