Final answer:
The Watergate scandal during President Richard Nixon's administration brought about a lack of trust in government officials due to corruption, a cover-up, and abuse of power.
Step-by-step explanation:
Watergate Scandal: A Presidential Scandal that Shook Trust in Government Officials
The Watergate scandal is the presidential scandal that brought about a lack of trust in government officials. It occurred during the presidency of Richard Nixon in the early 1970s. The scandal involved a break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters, the subsequent cover-up by the Nixon administration, and the abuse of presidential power.
The scandal eroded the public's trust in government officials due to several reasons. First, it revealed the extent of corruption and abuse of power within the highest levels of government. Second, the Nixon administration's attempts to obstruct the investigation raised suspicions of a cover-up. Third, the revelation of secret White House tape recordings exposed the president's involvement in the scandal and his efforts to withhold evidence.
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