Gerald R. Ford: Healing the Presidency

• Documentary

Episode overview

As the 38th U.S. president, Gerald Ford holds the unique position of being the only person to serve as both vice president and president without ever being elected. Sometimes called the "accidental president," Ford's refreshing honesty and integrity helped restore the nation's confidence in the White House following the scandalous Nixon years. Before his appointment to the vice presidency, Ford served as a popular member of the House of Representatives for 25 years and as House Minority Leader for eight of those years. From his service in World War II to the controversial pardoning of Richard Nixon to his failed 1976 reelection bid, this is the fascinating story of one of the most remarkable leaders America has ever known. Through interviews with family, friends, and former colleagues, Biography reveals the man behind one of the most notable presidencies of the 20th century.

60 minutes