He also appointed Nelson Rockefeller as vice president, so Rockefeller wasn't elected to the position either. Of course, Rockefeller never became president (despite running three times, in 1960, 1964, and 1968, although none of those times did he even become the Republican nominee).
@@lightyagami3492 duuuuuhhhh, no you freak. Everything went as it is written in the Constitution. You might want to read it sometime instead of the complete works of Karl Marx.
No. He pardoned Nixon and that set a terrible precedent. When a president commits serious crimes and resigns in disgrace, it’s imperative to prosecute him for those crimes. Otherwise, it undermines the entire purpose of the rule of law, that the law applies equally to all, that no one is above the law, no matter how high their social position. Ford pardoned Nixon although around 40 of Nixon’s men were convicted of crimes. We have seen one scandal after another in the White House go unpunished since them. Reagan and Iran -Contra. Clinton was impeached and disbarred but never prosecuted criminally. Bush 2 and his coterie of criminals were never prosecuted although they lied us into war in Afghanistan and Iraq. Hillary Clinton is still at large. The system protects those who serve it, even when they violate the law. That’s the lesson that Ford’s Larson of Nixon taught us. It’s one reason we are all so cynical about the federal government. We know that the really big crooks are never prosecuted abs sent to prison.
@@stevenyourke7901 Go try to be president. There is a time to wipe the slate clean. They all pay a price nobody who doesn't have the job can begin to relate to. I was five when he got pardoned. It wouldn't have done a damn bit of good for me or anyone else for Nixon to go through some long slog of a trial over something so stupid. "Finally, I believe Richard Nixon and his family have suffered enough, and will continue to suffer, no matter what I do .... " Enough said. Ford's job was to "use every means to ensure domestic tranquility." He totally did the right thing. The fact some went to prison while Nixon ended up being a respected statesmen and sold a zillion books - yeah that sucks. Life's a bitch and then you die. They should have pulled their heads out of their asses and exposed the thing immediately regardless of what Nixon said and got fired. That would have solved it.
I remember this day(Nixon's Departure/Ford's inauguration) because my mother made me and my siblings stay inside and watch it. "This is history and you'll tell your kids about it,"She told us.
I remember it too. I was ten at the time. During the evening before, my family took photos of Nixon's resignation announcement, and Ford's swearing in was audio tape recorded. That was prior to VCRs being common, although I think already invented.
My family was in DC on vacation during this time...This was special seeing this because we were outside the WH hearing this live over speakers they had set up for us....I was 10
I think Ford has always been underrated. He was one of the most honest and decent men to hold the office. Cleaning up Nixon's mess was a thankless task.
The prosecution of Nixon was destroying Ford's Presidency and the nation; Ford made the right decision to close the book, to bind up the wounds, to move forward. Best decision he could have made.
He entered the Presidency under a tumultuous time in America. He was called a dummy and a baffoon but looking back he was exactly what this nation needed.
Sonny bafoon may have been a little harsh, clumsy is more like it. Basically because he tripped several times and fell on camera. Also wasn't never elected to either office he held, VP for Nixon & of course POTUS after Nixon. I actually thought he was a wonderful man and a good POTUS.
I had the opportunity to shake hands with President Ford not once but twice. First was during the 1976 Campaign. I found out he was going to have a rally at the Rochester, NY airport and begged my parents to take me (A two hour drive round trip). It was pouring rain, but an estimated 10,000 supporters were there cheering as Air Force One landed. We were right up at the front of the receiving line, and for a 12 year old kid, I was thrilled beyond belief when he passed by and grabbed my hand. 24 years later, I attended a dinner in his honor at my undergraduate alma mater. I sat at the next table. As soon as the dinner was over, I thrust my Kodak disposable camera into the hands of the University President and said "Take my picture with President Ford." I introduced myself, telling him I was a fellow left-hander and Eagle Scout, and reminded him of the Rochester event. He recalled it fondly, and now on my wall, I have a cherished photo of the both us looking at each other and shaking hands. In addition, I have a signed photo and a signed letter he sent me in response to a letter I had written to him years before, thanking him for getting me interested in a public policy career. He was the right man at the right time.
@@bradyfry8031 The first time, no. Everyone was cheering and clapping, and I remember how firm his handshake was. The next day, I stood before my 7th grade social studies class, telling them with pride how I shook the hand of the President. The second time was a much more quieter event, and I will admit, I was a little nervous as I approached him. But the excitement of that once 12 year old boy came back as I had that brief one on one conversation with him.
I am a Democrat born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI. I never voted for Gerald Ford, either as our Congressman or as our President. But I knew then, as I know today, this was a good man. You don't have to vote for him to like him. And, I have run across few folks who didn't like Jerry Ford. This speech was a soothing bandage to America back then.
Politics is a thankless job, but in this particular case, even more so. Really Ford was damned if he did, damned if he didn't, but man he did a great job in his time. It's a shame the Nixon pardon killed his chances at the time.
You’re absolutely right. President Ford has this “oh my fucking god” look on his face for the slightest moment at 1:58 after his swearing-in. He probably WAS imagining the mess he inherited.
This will always be my favourite inaugural address. It's so simple yet so powerful, especially because how a lot of what President Ford says applies now more than ever. Defending the rule of law, democracy, and honesty in government. He restored dignity to the office. That is truly needed today.
sboudreaux27 Or did he? Maybe Nixon was set up by Ford. HOC is so clearly based on Nixon/Ford though. Unelected VP becomes President because his president resign because of a scandal. A difficult road towards election for Underwood...
sboudreaux27 No, but the storyline of an unelected VP becoming president after the president resigns because of a scandal is. Of course I'm not implying that Ford was an evil sadist like Underwood. The thing about him setting up Nixon was just a joke. I just think the creators of HOC took a lot of inspiration from the Nixon resignation. Such as for instance the scandal that forces Walker to resign, an unelected VP becoming president, him later struggling to get elected etc.
sboudreaux27 Remarkable how history is made by details. The only thing we can do is look forward and make sure the right person gets elected in the upcoming election.
@@therealuncleowen2588 Kamal is a ZERO, earned Nothing. She is empty and failure. 13 dead soldiers and she shows NO RESPECT. Tim is a big JOKE. Both are rubbish.
Mark Worth and He had dignity especially towards women as his mom was abused victim too learnt fast to be a family healer and Luck’s on his side Guessing
I'm from the UK and have visited USA just three times in my life. I remember watching this event when I was just 16. I could almost feel the strong wave of relief coming over the ocean and caused by his swearing-in. There was nothing dogmatic at all about this man and this was just what was needed in those extraordinary circumstances if you don't mind me saying so. I was very sorry he was not elected in 1976.
Considering the unusual circumstances of that moment in our Nation's History, there was not a better choice than Jerry Ford in my opinion and he did his very best.
Jerry Ford and Jimmy Carter both represented the mainstream middle of the road of their political parties. The central problem of both of their Presidencies was all the military aggression by the Russians neither of them could get much support for doing anything to stop.
I wasn’t born yet but if Jimmy Carter was anything like Joe Biden then probably not. I’ve seen so many people comparing Biden to Carter and it’s pretty terrifying.
@@shahrulamar5358 You must be thinking of John Quincy Adams, the only President to serve in the House of Representatives post-Presidency. Ford never served in elected office after leaving the White House
I remember Watergate very well and saw his swearing in! And like President Ford, said "The National Nightmare is over". I agree it was a nightmare! I believe like God, had Esther, Joseph, and others ready for greatness, he had Gerry Ford, ready too! :) Yes......Chief Justice Burger, did a wonderful job. He too, was perfect for the part! Undoubtedly, this was one of the most Historic Presidential speeches ever and sincere too. God Bless President Ford! I'm sure he's still praying for America in Heaven! God Bless!
Stan Mangers And what does this "blessed" man do? He shares his blessing by pardoning Nixon. Even with that said, Watergate was nothing but mere child's play compared to what our presidents have been doing since then. Ford would have told the truth if he rephrased, "The national nightmare has only just begun!"
Gen X Nursing Dude Thanks for your comment. Know Gerry Ford, wasn't perfect! Yes.........I think there's some validity in what your saying. Like to talk to you more about this sometime if you like and everybody else is welcome too! You can find me on facebook. I believe Iron sharpens Iron, and men sharpen men! God Bless you Gen X Nursing Dude!
@@Doug1958Music I second Ryan's thoughts. I could go into detail about how Trump never could have learned anything from President Ford because he doesn't know, or WANT to know, about the essence of decency. The comments here are about President Ford, a man who EARNED the words, "Mr. President."
A most professional swearing by CJ Burgher (who I always thought had the best method of administering the oath). He would always address the nominee by his previous rank/position and enquire of his willingness to take the oath. Although not really an inaugural address, this remains one of the best first speeches by any President.
Well actually, he's not the only President not elected to the office. John Tyler (succeeded to the presidency upon the death of William Henry Harrison), Millard Fillmore (succeeded to the presidency upon the death of Zachary Taylor), Andrew Johnson (succeeded to the presidency upon the assassination of Abraham Lincoln), and Chester A. Arthur (succeeded to the president upon the assassination of James A. Garfield) were also not elected President.
Ford was a decent man, and I think his intentions were good, but pardoning Nixon did exactly the opposite of "healing the wounds of Watergate." He tore those wounds wide open. He allowed a criminal president, a man who abused the power of his office in multiple ways, to get off scot-free. The pardon sent a clear message that the president is above the law, a message our current criminal president and his corrupt enablers have heard loud and clear.
An un-elected President, a reluctant President, yet a man of immense dignity and strength, a man who had the burden of the office of President. He knew that the nation needed healing. He left America in a far better state than it was when he took office. He was an un sung hero.
For me, the most emotionally honest Inaugural Address ever delivered. He became president without ever facing a national election. He was truly humbled and even overwhelmed by the office he took upon his shoulders. I find it interesting that when his voice cracks and he gets emotional, the cameras stay on other people and not on him. I think they thought the nation had had enough and needed a strong leader, and so they made sure that the cameras were not on him when his voice started to crack. And just another note -- think of what Betty Ford was going through at that time! She suffered a lot! The Betty Ford Clinic was the fruit of her suffering.
That 1976 election, Ford v Carter. Two of the best human beings to ever hold the office. Both men of earnest integrity who did their best to run the country with dignity. Not the best Presidents, but at least the country was in safe hands. Unlike with agent orange, God save us from him.
He was obviously a good man. So good that he got choked up when speaking about Richard Nixon, who had truly made a mess of his presidency for no good reason. Why should Ford have gotten emotional about that?
I was 13 years old when this happened and I remember it vividly. While I did not support President Ford in the 1976 election, I truly believe that Gerald Ford was the right person for that moment of crisis in our nation’s history, and that he will stand among the most honorable, honest, humble, and decent men of integrity to serve in that high office. I feel the same way about President Carter. And it grieves me deeply that these same attributes are so sorely lacking in the current incumbent in the White House. May God preserve our country and inspire the service of men and women of integrity and high character like Presidents Ford and Carter, statesmen who can lead our great nation effectively and with honesty and humility!
Millions of Americans were furious with Ford after he pardoned his predecessor and did not vote for him in the 1976 election. But, on hindsight, even Bob Woodward (who was also furious with Ford) had to admit years later that pardoning Nixon was the right thing to do. It was a "gutsy" move, as he described it. Ford's purpose at that moment was to "heal" the country, and pardoning his predecessor was the best way to do it.
Gerald Ford may have gotten in under bizarre circumstances, but man in his short term, he really proved himself worthy of being President, along with his wife Betty as FLOTUS. Truly class acts. It's such a shame he couldn't win in 1976. In my opinion, he deserved more time in the office as he could have done even more great work, but in hindsight it worked out for the best, since his wife Betty's alcoholism was getting way worse in 1976. Don't think she could have survived 4 additional years in office.
Gerald Ford was one of the most honest, caring, and humble gentlemen to serve this great nation. We needed him and he took on that responsibility with class and courage.
Ford was exactly who the nation needed at that time. it tugs my heartstrings to hear him almost burst into tears at around 8:53 when he asked the nation to pray for Richard Nixon. Ford was a genuinely good man, an honest American and a genuinely kind person. he was the closest we ever got to a normal everyday American in the Oval Office.
I attended The Viewing of The Body a nice man and his son held me so I could view The Body ( I was born with Disabilitys in left side, when I met Fords Family I told him people complain they want to sit to view The Body I told 1 of his Sons We could let everybody sit if we could the the Corpse to stand up, The Son laughed really hard and hugged me whispering Thanks I needed that.If u ever get a chance Go to Gerald R Ford Museum in Grand Rapids Michigan there is a big fence around the 2 Graves of President Ford and his Wife and there are guards who stand next to the Fence protecting the 2 Bodies, I felt a chill down my spine after seeing President and Wife Buried a few blocks from where I lived at the time. looking back there was a Minister named Nixon and he tells people Its odd Ford buried Nixon but a Nixon is Burying a Ford
I was 18 years old in 1976 my first vote was for President ford. I knew l was a conservative. May our lord bless President ford for everything he did for this nation
God Bless You and Thank You Gerald R. Ford. Nixon wasn't a saint but he was nowhere near the worst President in United States history. In fact he was the Best International Affairs President in United States History. Nixon should have had a lot more God fearing men like Gerald R. Ford as his running mate in 1968 instead of Spiro Agnew.
I remember the 1970's and America was crying out for decent, honest, humble men to lead her. We got both Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter who were both decent, honest and humble; that's why those two eventually became good friends. America was just in such a big mess during the 1970's.
Back in the Seventies half the American population under 30 was smoking dope, the global AIDS epidemic that eventually killed off 30 million people was spreading from all that free love stuff and the Russians were going broke funding the KGB trying to take over the world and cut off our oil supply while Ford was not even able to get Congress to let him provide air support for South Vietnam and Cambodia when Hanoi sent all their Russian tanks down the Ho Chi Minh trail. We were so messed up back in the Seventies that the only reason Ford wasn't assassinated by a Manson Family cultist is that she was so burnt out from drugs she tried to assassinate him with an unloaded gun.
As a Brit, it is striking how similar his ascension was to Abraham Lincoln; both Republicans trying to heal the wounds of a past age. A true statesman and an honourable man who was far greater than his critics!
i've always felt that Gerald Ford should have been selected as Nixon's Vice President running mate in 1968 instead of Spiro Agnew. i still believe Nixon would have won by a landslide in 1968 and 1972 with Gerald Ford as his Vice President.
Spiro Agnew's charges and big embarrassing trouble he caused the Administration quickly marred Nixon's 2nd term not just Watergate. The other choice i would have tried is Ronald Reagan.
But Gerald Ford was a very good humble God fearing Christian Family man and the best Republican choice to be Vice President at the time. It is unfortunate Ford was put off until the Autumn 1973 when was finally selected as Vice President
I agree James, he had the potential to be one of the best presidents in history had he gotten the chance to do so. The 16 months in the White House he had was no where near long enough to get things done.
+Callie Thrutchley --YES YES..anymore callie..a thief and liar covered up the jfk warren commission.lied to the federal courts..makes him guilty of a fed crime..a true puppet ...pardoned nixon so nixon kept his mouth shut...just another crook..like bush...theres your mighty president..stop worshiping these cretins.
I wasn't around yet during the Presidency of Gerald Ford as I was born a little more than 6 months after his term was over. While I can't speak on first hand knowledge, I can say that based on everything I have seen and read about the man, he seems like a decent, honest, and all around good man.
This man perfectly designed decency, like no other politician I have ever seen. I'm a Trump supporter, but I also believe that our current President could have done well, to seek out Gerald Ford's mentoring. God bless America!
I was a senior in high school. Ford was just about the most honest president in my life time. I voted for Carter. Wish I hadn't now. If he had beaten Carter Ford would be the caliber of man who would have reached out to the Governor and the entire Democratic Party. The 38th President is Home with the saints. RIP President Ford.
I was about six months past my third birthday when Ford became the president. I was too young then to remember this event now, but when I first became old enough to understand that we had a president and a simplistic version of what the president's job was Ford was in office. The first presidential election I remember was Ford's loss to Jimmy Carter in 1976.
Few people spot the near break down of the Chief Justice - his voice breaks as he says the word "Constitution" at 1.27, and he physically slumps at about 1.40
![Lethal Company Music Video 🎵 "Follow The Orders" [VERSION A]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QeooZB4Z7RA/mqdefault.jpg)
He is the only President to have served as President and vice President having not been elected to both, truly unique
Frank Underwood's idol
And I think he's the only President to have been offered positions by teams in the NFL.
He also appointed Nelson Rockefeller as vice president, so Rockefeller wasn't elected to the position either. Of course, Rockefeller never became president (despite running three times, in 1960, 1964, and 1968, although none of those times did he even become the Republican nominee).
Also undemocratic so....
@@lightyagami3492 duuuuuhhhh, no you freak. Everything went as it is written in the Constitution. You might want to read it sometime instead of the complete works of Karl Marx.
This was Mr. Ford's finest hour. He stepped up when the country needed him, and he did the best he could. The process worked.
I agree. He certainly didn’t ask for this but did the Best he could with what he had to offer.
Yeah unlike Andrew Johnson
No. He pardoned Nixon and that set a terrible precedent. When a president commits serious crimes and resigns in disgrace, it’s imperative to prosecute him for those crimes. Otherwise, it undermines the entire purpose of the rule of law, that the law applies equally to all, that no one is above the law, no matter how high their social position. Ford pardoned Nixon although around 40 of Nixon’s men were convicted of crimes. We have seen one scandal after another in the White House go unpunished since them. Reagan and Iran -Contra. Clinton was impeached and disbarred but never prosecuted criminally. Bush 2 and his coterie of criminals were never prosecuted although they lied us into war in Afghanistan and Iraq. Hillary Clinton is still at large. The system protects those who serve it, even when they violate the law. That’s the lesson that Ford’s Larson of Nixon taught us. It’s one reason we are all so cynical about the federal government. We know that the really big crooks are never prosecuted abs sent to prison.
Well said. This was emotional to watch, given all that had gone on in the country.
@@stevenyourke7901 Go try to be president. There is a time to wipe the slate clean. They all pay a price nobody who doesn't have the job can begin to relate to. I was five when he got pardoned. It wouldn't have done a damn bit of good for me or anyone else for Nixon to go through some long slog of a trial over something so stupid.
"Finally, I believe Richard Nixon and his family have suffered enough, and will continue to suffer, no matter what I do .... " Enough said.
Ford's job was to "use every means to ensure domestic tranquility." He totally did the right thing.
The fact some went to prison while Nixon ended up being a respected statesmen and sold a zillion books - yeah that sucks. Life's a bitch and then you die. They should have pulled their heads out of their asses and exposed the thing immediately regardless of what Nixon said and got fired. That would have solved it.
1:58 - The enormity of the situation hits him. It must've been a truly surreal experience.
I remember this day(Nixon's Departure/Ford's inauguration) because my mother made me and my siblings stay inside and watch it. "This is history and you'll tell your kids about it,"She told us.
how were the nixon years?
Your mom was right. I wish all parents would take such responsibility.
Your mom was right!!
I remember it too. I was ten at the time. During the evening before, my family took photos of Nixon's resignation announcement, and Ford's swearing in was audio tape recorded. That was prior to VCRs being common, although I think already invented.
My family was in DC on vacation during this time...This was special seeing this because we were outside the WH hearing this live over speakers they had set up for us....I was 10
I think Ford has always been underrated.
He was one of the most honest and decent men to hold the office.
Cleaning up Nixon's mess was a thankless task.
The prosecution of Nixon was destroying Ford's Presidency and the nation; Ford made the right decision to close the book, to bind up the wounds, to move forward. Best decision he could have made.
Nixon certainly was one of the worst.
It was a messy situation and some one had to clean it for the sake of America....That someone was Gerald Ford
Gerald Ford was another rat. Member of the scandalist Warren Commission. Just shows how much you know and understand James
Napoleon Lovecraft not really. If t weren’t for the Watergate scandal, Nixon would he considered one of the great Presidents in American history
He entered the Presidency under a tumultuous time in America. He was called a dummy and a baffoon but looking back he was exactly what this nation needed.
yes he was
Sonny bafoon may have been a little harsh, clumsy is more like it. Basically because he tripped several times and fell on camera. Also wasn't never elected to either office he held, VP for Nixon & of course POTUS after Nixon. I actually thought he was a wonderful man and a good POTUS.
"There is no Soviet domination in Eastern Europe"
@@Thecollectingman42 a flub..like Obama stating he had visited all 57 states....
Yes he was.
I had the opportunity to shake hands with President Ford not once but twice. First was during the 1976 Campaign. I found out he was going to have a rally at the Rochester, NY airport and begged my parents to take me (A two hour drive round trip). It was pouring rain, but an estimated 10,000 supporters were there cheering as Air Force One landed. We were right up at the front of the receiving line, and for a 12 year old kid, I was thrilled beyond belief when he passed by and grabbed my hand.
24 years later, I attended a dinner in his honor at my undergraduate alma mater. I sat at the next table. As soon as the dinner was over, I thrust my Kodak disposable camera into the hands of the University President and said "Take my picture with President Ford." I introduced myself, telling him I was a fellow left-hander and Eagle Scout, and reminded him of the Rochester event. He recalled it fondly, and now on my wall, I have a cherished photo of the both us looking at each other and shaking hands.
In addition, I have a signed photo and a signed letter he sent me in response to a letter I had written to him years before, thanking him for getting me interested in a public policy career.
He was the right man at the right time.
One big what if Ford won reelection in 1976.
Were you nervous meeting him?
@@bradyfry8031 The first time, no. Everyone was cheering and clapping, and I remember how firm his handshake was. The next day, I stood before my 7th grade social studies class, telling them with pride how I shook the hand of the President. The second time was a much more quieter event, and I will admit, I was a little nervous as I approached him. But the excitement of that once 12 year old boy came back as I had that brief one on one conversation with him.
I shook hands with him also in 1975 in Medford Oregon I guess that means we're brothers
I am a Democrat born and raised in Grand Rapids, MI. I never voted for Gerald Ford, either as our Congressman or as our President. But I knew then, as I know today, this was a good man. You don't have to vote for him to like him. And, I have run across few folks who didn't like Jerry Ford. This speech was a soothing bandage to America back then.
He looked like a man being led to his execution. I cannot imagine the mess he had to face when he took office.
Politics is a thankless job, but in this particular case, even more so. Really Ford was damned if he did, damned if he didn't, but man he did a great job in his time. It's a shame the Nixon pardon killed his chances at the time.
It's always a mess. It's Washington.
You’re absolutely right. President Ford has this “oh my fucking god” look on his face for the slightest moment at 1:58 after his swearing-in. He probably WAS imagining the mess he inherited.
It's like being crowned Roman Emperor after a civil war
This will always be my favourite inaugural address. It's so simple yet so powerful, especially because how a lot of what President Ford says applies now more than ever. Defending the rule of law, democracy, and honesty in government. He restored dignity to the office. That is truly needed today.
The only man to serve and both Vice President and President without being elected.
+David Katz Don't forget Frank Underwood
sboudreaux27 Or did he? Maybe Nixon was set up by Ford. HOC is so clearly based on Nixon/Ford though. Unelected VP becomes President because his president resign because of a scandal. A difficult road towards election for Underwood...
sboudreaux27 No, but the storyline of an unelected VP becoming president after the president resigns because of a scandal is. Of course I'm not implying that Ford was an evil sadist like Underwood. The thing about him setting up Nixon was just a joke. I just think the creators of HOC took a lot of inspiration from the Nixon resignation. Such as for instance the scandal that forces Walker to resign, an unelected VP becoming president, him later struggling to get elected etc.
sboudreaux27 Remarkable how history is made by details. The only thing we can do is look forward and make sure the right person gets elected in the upcoming election.
sboudreaux27 very true
We need a Gerald Ford right now.
Yes we do. It looks like we're going to get Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, which isn't bad.
@@therealuncleowen2588 Kamal is a ZERO, earned Nothing. She is empty and failure. 13 dead soldiers and she shows NO RESPECT. Tim is a big JOKE. Both are rubbish.
Amazing. His voice broke when he said "peace to millions" at 8:55. Supremely human moment.
i get teary eyed too everytime i see this again.
Mark Worth and He had dignity especially towards women as his mom was abused victim too learnt fast to be a family healer and Luck’s on his side Guessing
I wonder how Lyndon Johnson could have felt at 2.39pm CST on Nov 22, 1963
Seems like yesterday. And I was just 11 years old back then.
Wish I could hug President Ford...he rocks!
One of best Inaugural Addresses ever.
I'm from the UK and have visited USA just three times in my life. I remember watching this event when I was just 16. I could almost feel the strong wave of relief coming over the ocean and caused by his swearing-in.
There was nothing dogmatic at all about this man and this was just what was needed in those extraordinary circumstances if you don't mind me saying so.
I was very sorry he was not elected in 1976.
Considering the unusual circumstances of that moment in our Nation's History, there was not a better choice than Jerry Ford in my opinion and he did his very best.
He and Jimmy Carter..the two underrated presidents of my lifespan...
They campaign against each other and became great friends.
And ronald reagen even clinthon
@@williamsnyder5616 Carter is the oldest surviving former president. 🤔🤔🤔
Jerry Ford and Jimmy Carter both represented the mainstream middle of the road of their political parties. The central problem of both of their Presidencies was all the military aggression by the Russians neither of them could get much support for doing anything to stop.
I wasn’t born yet but if Jimmy Carter was anything like Joe Biden then probably not. I’ve seen so many people comparing Biden to Carter and it’s pretty terrifying.
A respectful person who brought the country into a new era.
Ford was a decent man. A bit dull but stable and reassuring. And he done his best under hugely demanding circumstances.
Respect from the UK
Mr Ford continued to served in US Congress for many years after he left the White House. 👍👍👍
Centrist: your avatar photo is a mind prison. Look up a man named Eric Dubay.
@@shahrulamar5358 :O
@@shahrulamar5358 You must be thinking of John Quincy Adams, the only President to serve in the House of Representatives post-Presidency. Ford never served in elected office after leaving the White House
One of my favorite Presidents.
I remember Watergate very well and saw his swearing in! And like President Ford, said "The National Nightmare is over". I agree it was a nightmare! I believe like God, had Esther, Joseph, and others ready for greatness, he had Gerry Ford, ready too! :) Yes......Chief Justice Burger, did a wonderful job. He too, was perfect for the part! Undoubtedly, this was one of the most Historic Presidential speeches ever and sincere too. God Bless President Ford! I'm sure he's still praying for America in Heaven! God Bless!
Stan Mangers And what does this "blessed" man do? He shares his blessing by pardoning Nixon. Even with that said, Watergate was nothing but mere child's play compared to what our presidents have been doing since then. Ford would have told the truth if he rephrased, "The national nightmare has only just begun!"
Gen X Nursing Dude Thanks for your comment. Know Gerry Ford, wasn't perfect! Yes.........I think there's some validity in what your saying. Like to talk to you more about this sometime if you like and everybody else is welcome too! You can find me on facebook. I believe Iron sharpens Iron, and men sharpen men! God Bless you Gen X Nursing Dude!
That was a historic day.
I am proud liberal Democrat, but I would have fully supported and I fully respect Gerald Ford.
I second that
I hope you can see today, what liberalism is doing to this country, and how it's hurting the cause of the Heartbeat of the Republic.
Doug Williams Bite me, Doug.
@@Doug1958Music I second Ryan's thoughts. I could go into detail about how Trump never could have learned anything from President Ford because he doesn't know, or WANT to know, about the essence of decency. The comments here are about President Ford, a man who EARNED the words, "Mr. President."
If you admit to being a democrat, that is equal to a communist.
A most professional swearing by CJ Burgher (who I always thought had the best method of administering the oath). He would always address the nominee by his previous rank/position and enquire of his willingness to take the oath. Although not really an inaugural address, this remains one of the best first speeches by any President.
He was a good man, a WW2 Navy Veteran. He and President Carter became good friends in their old age.
“There is no way we can go forward except together”. True about America, true about the World. True today, true forever.
Peaceful transfer of power to the only President not elected to the office. We can learn a lot from this era.
Amen
Agreed
Well actually, he's not the only President not elected to the office. John Tyler (succeeded to the presidency upon the death of William Henry Harrison), Millard Fillmore (succeeded to the presidency upon the death of Zachary Taylor), Andrew Johnson (succeeded to the presidency upon the assassination of Abraham Lincoln), and Chester A. Arthur (succeeded to the president upon the assassination of James A. Garfield) were also not elected President.
@@MrEzman99 He means the last President not elected to the presidency of vice presidency.
They were elected Vice President though! Ford was not elected President or Vice President!@MrEzman99
Thank you for healing the wounds of Watergate Gerald Ford. :)
He didn't heal the wounds. Ford just decided to stop the exercise in democracy and not allow the Justice Department to fulfill their obligations.
***** Ha.
Ford was a decent man, and I think his intentions were good, but pardoning Nixon did exactly the opposite of "healing the wounds of Watergate." He tore those wounds wide open. He allowed a criminal president, a man who abused the power of his office in multiple ways, to get off scot-free. The pardon sent a clear message that the president is above the law, a message our current criminal president and his corrupt enablers have heard loud and clear.
@@TheRealLaughingGravy Thank you.
@@TheRealLaughingGravy
look at his explanation on why he pardoned Nixon
he absolutely did the right thing to pardon him
his speech makes me tears up… I love this...I love America and I am proud to be an American by choice.
CJ Burger did swearing ins like a boss. Not as dry as Reinquiest or not even bother to read it like Roberts and have to do it over
I feel like Roberts got better over time. Obama's second and Trump's were pretty well done.
@@josephcarlisle1943 roberts is a rino
@@brendanfoley1593 This is irrelevant as to whether or not he can give the oath to the President.
@@brendanfoley1593 We don't want politics interfering with the interpretation of the law
Gerald Ford was a good man at the wrong place at the right time in American History.
I'd have to say he was at the right place. He was the perfect antidote to Nixon.
after the presidencies of lbj and nixon he was the perfect man for the office
He did nothing in office so how we needed him lol
I think he was a good President of the United States.
An un-elected President, a reluctant President, yet a man of immense dignity and strength, a man who had the burden of the office of President. He knew that the nation needed healing. He left America in a far better state than it was when he took office. He was an un sung hero.
About as good a speech as anyone could have asked for at that moment. Ford was a stud. "I am indebted to no man."
For me, the most emotionally honest Inaugural Address ever delivered. He became president without ever facing a national election. He was truly humbled and even overwhelmed by the office he took upon his shoulders. I find it interesting that when his voice cracks and he gets emotional, the cameras stay on other people and not on him. I think they thought the nation had had enough and needed a strong leader, and so they made sure that the cameras were not on him when his voice started to crack. And just another note -- think of what Betty Ford was going through at that time! She suffered a lot! The Betty Ford Clinic was the fruit of her suffering.
The first election I was eligible to vote was for President Ford. I am in my mid 60s now. I am proud of my decision to vote for him.
He wasn’t elected into office for president nor vice president though…
He meant in 1976
That 1976 election, Ford v Carter. Two of the best human beings to ever hold the office. Both men of earnest integrity who did their best to run the country with dignity. Not the best Presidents, but at least the country was in safe hands. Unlike with agent orange, God save us from him.
He was obviously a good man. So good that he got choked up when speaking about Richard Nixon, who had truly made a mess of his presidency for no good reason. Why should Ford have gotten emotional about that?
Betty was a great woman and helped save many lives.
I was 13 years old when this happened and I remember it vividly. While I did not support President Ford in the 1976 election, I truly believe that Gerald Ford was the right person for that moment of crisis in our nation’s history, and that he will stand among the most honorable, honest, humble, and decent men of integrity to serve in that high office. I feel the same way about President Carter. And it grieves me deeply that these same attributes are so sorely lacking in the current incumbent in the White House. May God preserve our country and inspire the service of men and women of integrity and high character like Presidents Ford and Carter, statesmen who can lead our great nation effectively and with honesty and humility!
Millions of Americans were furious with Ford after he pardoned his predecessor and did not vote for him in the 1976 election. But, on hindsight, even Bob Woodward (who was also furious with Ford) had to admit years later that pardoning Nixon was the right thing to do. It was a "gutsy" move, as he described it. Ford's purpose at that moment was to "heal" the country, and pardoning his predecessor was the best way to do it.
It really hits him at 1:58.
Yes I saw that!
That look was the weight of not only the country, but the weight of the world falling on his shoulders
I noticed that too. He recovered quickly
Gerry Ford was a good man and a good President. We'd be lucky to have him back.
Gerald Ford may have gotten in under bizarre circumstances, but man in his short term, he really proved himself worthy of being President, along with his wife Betty as FLOTUS. Truly class acts. It's such a shame he couldn't win in 1976. In my opinion, he deserved more time in the office as he could have done even more great work, but in hindsight it worked out for the best, since his wife Betty's alcoholism was getting way worse in 1976. Don't think she could have survived 4 additional years in office.
Definitely not.
Allen M. Quinn s
I do believe he was a good President but I think the main reason he didn’t get re-elected is because he pardoned Nixon.
Classy man.
Fifty years ago now. Today, he looks like a giant compared with most of his successors.
Gerald Ford was one of the most honest, caring, and humble gentlemen to serve this great nation. We needed him and he took on that responsibility with class and courage.
One of the greatest and most underrated speeches in American history in my honest opinion! I love it!!!!!
Ford was exactly who the nation needed at that time. it tugs my heartstrings to hear him almost burst into tears at around 8:53 when he asked the nation to pray for Richard Nixon. Ford was a genuinely good man, an honest American and a genuinely kind person. he was the closest we ever got to a normal everyday American in the Oval Office.
I attended The Viewing of The Body a nice man and his son held me so I could view The Body ( I was born with Disabilitys in left side, when I met Fords Family I told him people complain they want to sit to view The Body I told 1 of his Sons We could let everybody sit if we could the the Corpse to stand up, The Son laughed really hard and hugged me whispering Thanks I needed that.If u ever get a chance Go to Gerald R Ford Museum in Grand Rapids Michigan there is a big fence around the 2 Graves of President Ford and his Wife and there are guards who stand next to the Fence protecting the 2 Bodies, I felt a chill down my spine after seeing President and Wife Buried a few blocks from where I lived at the time. looking back there was a Minister named Nixon and he tells people Its odd Ford buried Nixon but a Nixon is Burying a Ford
I was 18 years old in 1976 my first vote was for President ford. I knew l was a conservative. May our lord bless President ford for everything he did for this nation
Are you a trump conservative as well?
@@pexfmezccle Let's hope not.
I love you Gerald Ford.
A man we need now more than ever. A man who can take charge in times of trouble.
Gee, we could certainly use Gerald Ford today.
God Bless You and Thank You Gerald R. Ford. Nixon wasn't a saint but he was nowhere near the worst President in United States history. In fact he was the Best International Affairs President in United States History. Nixon should have had a lot more God fearing men like Gerald R. Ford as his running mate in 1968 instead of Spiro Agnew.
Not a great president, but what a calming figure and a decent man who really did try his best
Such a truthful speech! I love this!!!
Gerald R. Ford 1974-1977
This guy was on the Warren commission.
The hero we needed, but not the one we deserved.
He looked very presidential.
Regardless of how many years he was president, this man was an excellent speaker and was just trying to heal the nation
I remember this when I was a boy. A class act and a great example for us kids at the time.
A true American. 🇺🇸
Can only imagine what he was thinking. I feel like Ford would’ve done so much better if America wasn’t in such a mess at the time.
I remember the 1970's and America was crying out for decent, honest, humble men to lead her. We got both Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter who were both decent, honest and humble; that's why those two eventually became good friends. America was just in such a big mess during the 1970's.
Back in the Seventies half the American population under 30 was smoking dope, the global AIDS epidemic that eventually killed off 30 million people was spreading from all that free love stuff and the Russians were going broke funding the KGB trying to take over the world and cut off our oil supply while Ford was not even able to get Congress to let him provide air support for South Vietnam and Cambodia when Hanoi sent all their Russian tanks down the Ho Chi Minh trail. We were so messed up back in the Seventies that the only reason Ford wasn't assassinated by a Manson Family cultist is that she was so burnt out from drugs she tried to assassinate him with an unloaded gun.
He'd have my vote !
A good president.
He didn't let me down.
It sinks in at 1:57
Yeah, honestly I'm surprised there hasn't been a film about this. It's a remarkable story.
The first president I remember I was 7 at the time
We must be about the same age, though I also remember Nixon.
As a Brit, it is striking how similar his ascension was to Abraham Lincoln; both Republicans trying to heal the wounds of a past age. A true statesman and an honourable man who was far greater than his critics!
"Our long national nightmare is over. The Constitution worked!"
the caretaker president
Was thinking the same thing.
Was thinking the same thing.
No Chief Justice did better swearings-in than Warren Burger.
i've always felt that Gerald Ford should have been selected as Nixon's Vice President running mate in 1968 instead of Spiro Agnew. i still believe Nixon would have won by a landslide in 1968 and 1972 with Gerald Ford as his Vice President.
Spiro Agnew's charges and big embarrassing trouble he caused the Administration quickly marred Nixon's 2nd term not just Watergate. The other choice i would have tried is Ronald Reagan.
But Gerald Ford was a very good humble God fearing Christian Family man and the best Republican choice to be Vice President at the time. It is unfortunate Ford was put off until the Autumn 1973 when was finally selected as Vice President
Strange thoughts about a criminal in Chief.
@@BBQFanNo1 Nixon thought Reagan was too conservative.
Watching 50 Years Later!
I wished the inauguration was like this and not outside with all those crowds and celebration.
intra-term inaugurations are like this
the whole point though is that its supposed to be public. Thats thebpoint. It was designed in a time of no television or radio
Ford 1976. Sad Carter defeated him 😭
If only we had his honesty and integrity today. A good and decent man.
50 years ago, Gerald Ford became president. Friday August 9, 2024.
I agree James, he had the potential to be one of the best presidents in history had he gotten the chance to do so. The 16 months in the White House he had was no where near long enough to get things done.
Humble...
“Gerry Ford is doing a heck of a job for a guy nobody voted for.”-Archie Bunker
Does this take place after Nixon's departure from the White House?
Yes, not long afterward; same day.
Yep! Nixons resignation speech indicated that ford shall be sworn in as President the following morning after he left
Thus begins his 2-year presidency.
He was VP to Richard Nixon, thus was sworn in as president when Richard Nixon resigned.
+Callie Thrutchley --YES YES..anymore callie..a thief and liar covered up the jfk warren commission.lied to the federal courts..makes him guilty of a fed crime..a true puppet ...pardoned nixon so nixon kept his mouth shut...just another crook..like bush...theres your mighty president..stop worshiping these cretins.
+Callie Thrutchley Really? Wow!
TROLL IN THE COMMENTS! TROLL IN THE COMMENTS!
Thought you ought to know. *faints*
Yes Mr. President honesty and truth is the best policy in government. God bless the righteous America 🇺🇸. GHU HW
I wasn't around yet during the Presidency of Gerald Ford as I was born a little more than 6 months after his term was over. While I can't speak on first hand knowledge, I can say that based on everything I have seen and read about the man, he seems like a decent, honest, and all around good man.
Pure awesomeness.
Gerald Ford was one of the most decent Americans in all history.
Decency. It still matters.
My father was 13 when Nixon resigned, I wonder if during my generations lifetime we'll see a president resign
This man perfectly designed decency, like no other politician I have ever seen. I'm a Trump supporter, but I also believe that our current President could have done well, to seek out Gerald Ford's mentoring. God bless America!
I was a senior in high school. Ford was just about the most honest president in my life time. I voted for Carter. Wish I hadn't now. If he had beaten Carter Ford would be the caliber of man who would have reached out to the Governor and the entire Democratic Party. The 38th President is Home with the saints. RIP President Ford.
they had 3 sm57s on the lectern back then rather than the 2. interesting.
I was about six months past my third birthday when Ford became the president. I was too young then to remember this event now, but when I first became old enough to understand that we had a president and a simplistic version of what the president's job was Ford was in office. The first presidential election I remember was Ford's loss to Jimmy Carter in 1976.
I bet he was still in shock at this point
my president yesterday today ❤
❤ thank you
A good man and a underrated president.
A MIchigan Man at the helm who brought dignitas to the office of President of the United States. He has a tear in his eye
I watched this at home. Ford was the keynote speaker at my brother's college graduation from Ohio State a few weeks later. Ironicallyat Ohio State.
When you apply for that assistant manager job and become head manager on the first day of work.
Few people spot the near break down of the Chief Justice - his voice breaks as he says the word "Constitution" at 1.27, and he physically slumps at about 1.40
hey guys why can't i hear "hail to the chief"? in that video