Final answer:
Nixon's first term witnessed moderate domestic policies, with mixed success in addressing inflation and unemployment. His foreign policy achievements included opening relations with China and détente with the Soviet Union. However, the Watergate scandal overshadowed his presidency leading to Nixon's resignation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Richard Nixon's First Term as President
Richard Nixon's first term as president was characterized by a moderate approach in domestic policy and significant achievements in foreign relations. In a turbulent period marked by civil unrest and economic challenges, Nixon attempted to maintain law and order while grappling with issues of inflation and unemployment. Despite his efforts to promote fiscal conservatism and a 'New Federalism', his domestic policies met with limited success. However, Nixon's efforts in foreign policy were more fruitful, including the establishment of diplomatic relations with China and the initiation of détente with the Soviet Union. He also sought to slow the progress of civil rights and made law and order a central theme of his presidency. Yet, his term was marred by the emergence of scandals, including the discovery that his administration was involved in unethical and illegal activities.
Nixon's domestic and foreign accomplishments were overshadowed by the Watergate scandal that erupted prior to his overwhelming reelection in 1972. The scandal ultimately led to the indictment of 25 members of his administration and Nixon's resignation from presidency, leaving a lasting impact on American politics and society.