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.