The Watergate scandal, which unfolded in the early 1970s, was sparked by the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters at the Watergate office complex in Washington, D.C., in June 1972. Investigative journalism, especially by reporters at The Washington Post, uncovered a pattern of corruption involving the Nixon administration, including attempted cover-ups and abuses of power. The scandal escalated, leading to revelations about illegal campaign activities, wiretapping, and the misuse of government agencies. Ultimately, the controversy culminated in President Richard Nixon's resignation in August 1974, profoundly impacting American political life and public trust in government.