Historian Arthur M. Schlesinger Jr. believed Nixon's resignation would establish enduring constraints on executive power. However, Watergate's legacy proved more complex than anticipated. Rather than deterring future misconduct, the scandal inadvertently established a template for subsequent political crises. Presidents and their administrations learned to navigate institutional accountability mechanisms, adapt communication strategies, and exploit procedural loopholes. This analysis examines how Watergate transformed from a cautionary tale into a blueprint, revealing how institutional failures and political resilience can subvert historical lessons intended to prevent abuse of power.

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