Spiro Agnew served as the 39th vice president of the United States from 1969 until his resignation in 1973. His political ascent from a local zoning board appointee to the national executive stage was defined by a shift toward conservative rhetoric, culminating in a legal downfall that remains a significant moment in American political history.
Early Life and Education
Born in Baltimore in 1918 to a Greek immigrant father and an American mother, Agnew attended Forest Park High School. He initially enrolled at Johns Hopkins University as a chemistry major but transitioned to the study of law. He completed his legal education at the University of Baltimore School of Law, subsequently entering the workforce as an insurance clerk before his entry into public office.
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Agnew began his political involvement in the 1950s as a campaign aide. In 1957, he received an appointment to the Baltimore County Board of Zoning Appeals. He successfully ran for Baltimore County Executive in 1962 and later won the election for Governor of Maryland in 1966. His tenure as governor brought him to the attention of Richard Nixon, who selected him as his running mate for the 1968 presidential election.
The Vice Presidency and Resignation
During his term as vice president, Agnew became known for his aggressive attacks against administration critics, a role that earned him support among conservatives. He and Nixon secured re-election in 1972. In 1973, an investigation by the United States Attorney for the District of Maryland revealed that Agnew had accepted kickbacks from contractors during his time as county executive and governor. Facing charges of criminal conspiracy, bribery, extortion, and tax fraud, he pleaded no contest to a single felony charge of tax evasion and resigned from office.
Later Years
After resigning from the vice presidency, Agnew largely withdrew from the public eye. He authored a novel and a memoir in which he defended his previous actions. He lived until 1996, dying at his home at the age of 77 due to undiagnosed acute leukemia. He was buried at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
Fast facts
- Born: 1918, Baltimore
- Died: 1996, Berlin
- Vice President of the United States: 1969-1973
- Governor of Maryland: 1967-1969
- Baltimore County Executive: 1962-1966
- Education: University of Baltimore School of Law
- Awards: Bronze Star Medal
- Religion: Episcopal Church
Questions readers ask
Why did Spiro Agnew resign from office?
He resigned in 1973 after pleading no contest to a felony charge of tax evasion following an investigation into bribery, extortion, and kickbacks.
Was Spiro Agnew involved in the Watergate scandal?
No, he was not implicated in the Watergate scandal, as his legal issues stemmed from activities during his time as a local and state official in Maryland.
Achievements
- Educated at Johns Hopkins University
- Worked as politician, lawyer and governor
