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February 4, 1969

Introduction

This almanac page for Tuesday, February 4, 1969, pulls together various records created by the federal government and links to additional resources which can provide context about the events of the day.

Previous Date: Monday, February 3, 1969

Next Date: Wednesday, February 5, 1969

Schedule and Public Documents

  • The Daily Diary files represent a consolidated record of the President's activities. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    The President's day began at The White House - Washington, D. C.

  • The Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents made available transcripts of the President's news conferences; messages to Congress; public speeches, remarks, and statements; and other Presidential materials released by the White House.

    Addresses and Remarks

    • Department of Labor (5 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 216, February 4, 1969)
      The President's Remarks to Top Officials at the Department.

    Appointments and Nominations

    Awards and Citations

    • Presidential Unit Citation (5 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 215, February 4, 1969)
      Announcement of Award to the 716th Military Police Battalion and Attached Units.

    Letters, Memorandums, Etc.

    Statements by the President

    • Ralph McGill (5 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 218, February 4, 1969)
      Statement by the President.

    Swearing-In Ceremonies

    • Executive Office of the President and White House Staff (5 Weekly Comp. Pres. Doc. 216, February 4, 1969)
      The President's Remarks at the Swearing In of Dr. Paul W. McCracken, Dr. Herbert Stein, and Dr. Hendrik Houthakker, Council of Economic Advisers; Dr. Arthur Burns, Counsellor to the President; and Gen. George A. Lincoln, Director, Office of Emergency Preparedness.

    Checklist of White House Press Releases

    The releases listed below, made public by the Office of the White House Press Secretary during the period covered by this issue, are not included in the issue.

    • Biography of Martin J. Hillenbrand.
    • Biography of Paul W. McCracken.
    • Biography of Herbert Stein.
    • Biography of Hendrik S. Houthakker.
    • Biography of Arthur F. Burns.
    • Biography of George A. Lincoln.
    • Biography of Joseph J. Sisco.
    • Biography uf Samuel De Palma.
    • Biography of Lt. Col. Ralph D. Albertazzle.
    • Biography of Col. Walter R. Tkach.

    Digest of Other White House Announcements

    Following is a listing of items of general interest which were announced in the press but not made public as formal White House press releases during the period covered by this issue. Appointments requiring Senate approval are not included since they appear in the list of nominations submitted to the Senate, below.

    • The President has named Lt. Col. Ralph D. Albertazzie as Commander of the President's Aircraft.
    • The President appointed Col. Walter R. Tkach, USAF, as physician to the President.

    Nominations Submitted to the Senate

    Does not include promotions of members of the Uniformed Services, nominations to the Service Academies, or nominations of Foreign Service Officers.

    • JAMES C. COUNTS, of California, to be Federal Mediation and Conciliation Director.
    • JAMES V. SMITH, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the Farmers Home Administration.
    • MARTIN J. HILLENBRAND, of Illinois, a Foreign Service Officer of the Class of Career Minister, to be an Assistant Secretary of State.
    • SAMUEL DE PALMA, of Maryland, a Foreign Service Officer of Class one, to be an Assistant Secretary of State.
    • JOSEPH JOHN Sisco, of Maryland, a Foreign Service Officer of the Class of Career Minister, to be an Assistant Secretary of State.

  • Each Public Papers of the Presidents volume contains the papers and speeches of the President of the United States that were issued by the White House Office of the Press Secretary during the time period specified by the volume. The material is presented in chronological order, and the dates shown in the headings are the dates of the documents or events. In instances when the release date differs from the date of the document itself, that fact is shown in the text note.

    To ensure accuracy, remarks have been checked against audio recordings (when available) and signed documents have been checked against the original, unless otherwise noted. Editors have provided text notes and cross references for purposes of identification or clarity.

  • The Federal Register is the official daily publication for rules, proposed rules, and notices of federal agencies and organizations, as well as executive orders and other Presidential documents.

  • The Congressional Record is the official daily record of the debates and proceedings of the U.S. Congress.

Archival Holdings

  • Selective document listing

    President's Office Files

    The President's Office Files consists of materials drawn together by the Special Files Unit from several administrative subdivisions within the White House Office. It is the handwriting and sensitive papers sent to the Staff Secretary that now comprise much of the President's Office Files. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • President's Handwriting, Box 1, President's Handwriting, February 1969
      • Memo; Maurice H. Stans to The President re: Inventory of problems inherited from the previous Administration, incl. attachment. February 4, 1969. 6 pgs.
    • President's Meetings File, Box 73, Memoranda for the President--Beginning February 2, 1969
      • Memo; Alexander P. Butterfield to The President's File re: Mid-Afternoon Meeting in the President's Office with David Kennedy, Secretary of the Treasury; Walter Hickel, Secretary of the Interior; and Maurice Stans, Secretary of Commerce (3:30 - 4:15 p.m.). February 4, 1969. 3 pgs.

    President's Personal File

    The President's Personal File is essentially a President's secretary's file, kept by Rose Mary Woods, personal secretary to the President, for two purposes: (1) preserving for posterity a collection of documents particularly close to the President, whether because he dictated or annotated them, or because of the importance of the correspondent or the event concerned and (2) giving appropriate attention–letters of gratitude, invitations to White House social events, and the like–to members and important friends and supporters of the Nixon administration. This generalization does not describe all the varied materials of a file group which is essentially a miscellany, but it does identify the reason for the existence of the file group's core. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • Memoranda from the President, Box 1, Memos--February 1969
      • Memo; The President to Henry Kissinger re: February 3 memorandum, "The Mid East -- Some Policy Considerations". February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to John Ehrlichman re: RN providing direct leadership to the Cabinet committee. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to Bob Haldeman re: Looking at a few letters from old friends and VIPs. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to John Ehrlichman re: Legislative program. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to John Ehrlichman re: Increase in presidential salary, Six Crises, honorarium from Ladies' Home Journal on the preface to Six Crises. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to The Secretary of State and the Attorney General re: Hijacking of planes to Cuba. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to The Attorney General re: D. C. Crime Report. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to Henry Kissinger re: John Eisenhower's announcement as Ambassador to Brussels. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to Bob Haldeman re: Dinner for Menzies. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to The Secretary of State re: Heads of government meeting. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to John Ehrlichman re: Brief affirmative comments with regard to the Inauguration and also the press conference. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to Bob Haldeman re: Comments on the Inaugural. February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to John Ehrlichman re: News summaries. February 4, 1969. 2 pgs.
      • Memo; The President to The Attorney General re: The Daily News "Crime Clock". February 4, 1969. 1 pg.
      • Memo; The President to Secretary Finch; Patrick Moynihan; John Ehrlichman re: The Washington Daily News editorial, "Schools, Crime and the President". February 4, 1969. 1 pg.

  • Selective document listing

    White House Press Office

    The White House Press Office during the Presidency of Richard Nixon was responsible for daily communication with the White House press corps. Ronald L. Ziegler was the Press Secretary to the President for Nixon's entire term in office from January 1969 to August 1974 and Gerald Warren served as the Deputy Press Secretary. The office held daily briefings for the press and produced the White House’s press releases. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • White House Press Conferences, Box 55
      • News Conference #32 at the White House with Ron Ziegler, February 4, 1969, 11:10 A.M. EST. 6 pgs.
      • News Conference #33 at the White House with Ron Ziegler, February 4, 1969, 4:02 P.M. EST. 3 pgs.

  • The H. R. Haldeman Diaries consists of seven handwritten diaries, 36 dictated diaries recorded as sound recordings, and two handwritten audio cassette tape subject logs. The diaries and logs reflect H. R. Haldeman’s candid personal record and reflections on events, issues, and people encountered during his service in the Nixon White House. As administrative assistant to the President and Chief of Staff, Haldeman attended and participated in public events and private meetings covering the entire scope of issues in which the Nixon White House engaged in during the years 1969-1973. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    • Transcript of diary entry (PDF)
      Tuesday, February 4.

      Day started with a problem - he thought a tape from his house dictating machine was blank - but it turned out to be all right.

      Back to the Bliss matter at staff meeting - President mad at his attitude - decided only way to deal with him is to set deadline regarding Ambassador for this week, and if he refuses it - and to leave - force Chotiner on him, and deal with Rogers Morton on all politics.

      Concern about oil quota and Maine free port. Wants to get it out of Hickel's hands and back to White House. Meets with Stans and Kennedy this afternoon (Stans brought Hickel, which loused up the situation).

      Lot of reviewing of guest list for Menzies' (Australia) dinner Monday, adding old newsmen and friends.

      Still trying to work out phone call plan - and still no daily list. Rose problem working OK. She handled mail - brought a bundle in for signatures and President pleased with whole process.

      Decided, after talk with Helms, to visit CIA as well as AEC. Feels Agency and Department visits have been very productive. Amazed no President has done it before (except for official ceremonies). Goes on and on regarding the effect on the personnel - and I'm sure he's right!

      Funny line, in reviewing draft statement regarding newspaper editor Ralph McGill's death, said "Tell the writers not to say we'll miss him--of course, we'll miss him, everyone knows that." Also, got to tossing dog biscuits around the office for Tim - one hit the grandfather clock.

      Reviewed quite a bit of incoming mail, and a report from the 5:00 Group (Public Relations Committee). Discussed various approaches to ways of presenting the Administration - and need for establishing our line (although overall reaction has really been excellent. He's really stepped into the job, and this is recognized).

      NSC met this morning - tomorrow he announces the non-proliferation treaty.

      Some discussion of the trip - no new things except the Pope will be on a Lenten retreat.

      Strange problem with Agnew, who's hired LBJ's top advance man as an administrative assistant. No one seems to be able to dissuade him - and the guy has turned out to be a total spy, has all the inside poop, etc.

      Also fought the Secret Service battle with Rowley, and told him Lem Johns had to go - he seemed pleased - and I think this will gain a lot among the rank and file.
    • Handwritten diary entry (JPG)

  • The National Archives Catalog is the online portal to the records held at the National Archives, and information about those records. It is the main way of describing our holdings and also provides access to electronic records and digitized versions of our holdings. 

    The Catalog searches across multiple National Archives resources at once, including archival descriptions, digitized and electronic records, authority records, and web pages from Archives.gov and the Presidential Libraries. The Catalog also allows users to contribute to digitized historical records through tagging and transcription.

    Nixon Library Holdings

    All National Archives Units

National Security Documents

  • The President's Daily Brief is the primary vehicle for summarizing the day-to-day sensitive intelligence and analysis, as well as late-breaking reports, for the White House on current and future national security issues. Read "The President's Daily Brief: Delivering Intelligence to Nixon and Ford" to learn more.

    • President's Daily Brief of 04 February 1969 [consult link for visuals and extent of redactions]
      The President's Daily Brief

      4 February 1969
      19
      Top Secret

      5 February 1969

      LATE NOTES FOR THE PRESIDENT'S DAILY BRIEF OF 
      4 FEBRUARY 1969

      I. MAJOR PROBLEMS

      MIDDLE EAST
      There is nothing of significance to report.

      EUROPE
      There is nothing of significance to report.

      SOVIET AFFAIRS
      There is nothing of significance to report.

      VIETNAM
      Vice President Ky has told Ambassador Lodge that he intends to return to Saigon on Saturday, 8 February. His purpose is to put more pressure on President Thieu to reorganize the South Vietnamese government and in particular to replace Premier Huong.

      Ky has been telling American officials for some time that the government of South Vietnam cannot deal effectively with all the problems it will face in a post war competition with the Communists unless the cabinet is strengthened. In Ky's mind, strengthening the cabinet means ousting his personal enemy Huong and several other cabinet members and replacing them with Ky's own supporters.

      [redacted]

      II. OTHER IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS

      CANADA
      The Canadian Ambassador in Washington said yesterday his government is considering advancing the timing of its initial contact in Stockholm with the Chinese Communists from 7 February to today, in view of press leaks in Japan about the intended approach. There would also be an acceleration of the public announcement, originally planned for 10 February. [redacted]

      CUBA
      Havana, in reply to US queries, has given the Swiss a note setting out its views on the hijacking problem and the use of Miami-Varadero flights by Cubans wishing to return to Cuba. The main points are:

      --The Cubans are not willing to approve unrestricted entry of all Cubans who might wish to return home from the US; they are willing to consider any list of names given them, but in no case could any person who left Cuba illegally be permitted to return.

      --The Cubans would be willing to permit passengers on hijacked planes to return to the US on the same plane provided the crew, airlines, and US authorities are willing to take all responsibility.

      --Havana does not consider it possible under present circumstances to conclude a bilateral agreement with the US.

      --If the problem continues, Havana will consider taking any measures it considers appropriate to resolve it "in an adequate and just manner."

      In a subsequent conversation with the Swiss Ambassador, Castro's main argument was that the US is to blame for the hijacking problem, since hijackers were usually individuals who had left Cuba illegally, and the US had encouraged this by receiving such people with open arms. [redacted]

      I. MAJOR PROBLEMS

      MIDDLE EAST

      [redacted]

      The influential Jerusalem Post, which often reflects Israeli Government thinking, recently suggested that for any meaningful settlement Israel might better deal with the terrorists than. the Arab governments.

      [redacted]

      * * *

      The fact that nothing came of last month's Jordanian economic mission to Moscow was, oddly enough, pleasing to both sides. Both for reasons of their own, went through the ritual of negotiations, seemingly only for purposes of arriving at a congenial communique. The Soviets, of course, were interested in preserving their image as friends of the Arabs. The Jordanians apparently wanted to make their Western friends nervous about their future orientation, as well as to see if the Soviets could be induced to give them something for nothing. [redacted]

      EUROPE
      There is nothing significant to report.

      SOVIET AFFAIRS
      The Soviets' failure to orbit a weather satellite on 1 February leaves their program limping, with only one active monitoring system in orbit--and its useful lifetime is probably about over. This will make it more difficult than ever for Moscow to live up to its obligations under a series of US-USSR agreements dating back to 1962 for timely exchange of meteorological data.

      The first successful Soviet weather satellite was not orbited until 1966, a year after the date set in the agreement for exchange of information. Since then, the USSR has sent only limited data to the US, most of it late and of poor quality.

      VIETNAM
      A preview of Hanoi's initial substantive position in the Paris talks may have been surfaced in Ambassador Lodge's conversation with Soviet Ambassador Zorin in Paris on 31 January. We share Ambassador Lodge's view that the Soviets are right on top of events in Paris. In fact, it seems likely that Zorin was leading with openers suggested by the North Vietnamese.

      He suggested that the US should take the initiative by starting to pull out US troops and then consider political matters. On the latter, Zorin baldly suggested that Lodge should use his "influence" in Saigon to bring about changes in the government so that talks could move forward. This is a fine scenario from the Communist point of view and precisely parallels their propaganda line about a "peace cabinet" and the need for the US to end its "aggression" as a first step toward a settlement. Hanoi almost certainly believes, however, that it will have to climb down from this position eventually. Zorin's comments were another attempt to stake out a maximum position at the outset of the talks.

      The Vietnamese Communists seem concerned about the implications of partial US troop withdrawals prior to some understanding on broader political issues. They would, of course, like to see the US withdraw unilaterally and completely without making the Communists pay a price in return. But not only do they realize that this is unlikely they also seem apprehensive about suggestions that the US plans only a gradual withdrawal of its forces as the South Vietnamese take over the main part of the job. They realize that if this changeover were successfully executed, it would undercut what they consider to be an element of prime leverage on the US--domestic US pressure for political concessions to the Communists in order to end the war and get US troops home. Le Due Tho told Ambassador Harriman last month that the Communists would have none of this, and he strongly implied they would try to prevent it with military force if necessary. A recent Hanoi broadcast concludes on a similar note by saying that the US cannot "de-Americanize" the war.

      * * *

      Ground activity remained at a generally low level yesterday. One rocket round landed in the Hue Citadel.

      II. OTHER IMPORTANT DEVELOPMENTS

      KOREA
      North Korea may be readying more guerrilla groups to infiltrate the South. We have indications [redacted] that approximately four 15-man teams are taking operational training. These may be the same four that trained earlier with--but did not accompany--the eight teams that landed on South Korea's east coast in November.

      PANAMA
      The current situation in Panama is the subject of today's Annex.

      PERU
      Some government officials have finally become convinced that the danger of US sanctions in the dispute over the expropriation of the International Petroleum Company is real, and the government is trying to trim its propaganda sails accordingly. [redacted]

      To us this seems in large measure a cosmetic change. We believe Velasco and his nationalistic advisers are too heavily committed to the prosecution of their case to make any significant concessions on the substance of the dispute itself. [redacted]

      ANNEX

      PANAMA*
      SIGNIFICANCE: Panama, closely linked to the US by its dependence on benefits from the interoceanic canal and the sizable US presence on the isthmus, is currently saddled with the first direct military government in the 65-year history of the republic. US relations with the junta government have been correct but cool since the coup last October and economic assistance, programed at about $20 million in FY 1969, has been resumed only on a limited scale. The government has not been anti-American but the colonels now in control are likely to be more nationalistic--and thus more difficult to deal with--than their civilian predecessors. Prospects for the draft canal treaties look exceedingly dim at this point.

      * * *

      Internal Political Situation

      The Panamanian political system, long dominated by a small group of wealthy and often warring families, almost broke down during a series of crises last year associated with the chaotic election that brought Arnulfo Arias to the presidency for a third time. After only eleven days in office Arias was ousted--as he had been twice before--by a
      military coup when he attempted to dislodge Opponents in the ranks of the National Guard, the country's only military and police force.

      Power relationships in Panama are still extremely fluid. The 5,000-man guard is now struggling with the unfamiliar task of running a government. Colonels Torrijos and Martinez,

      *A Special National Intelligence Estimate (Number 84-69) entitled "The Situation in Panama" was approved by the VS Intelligence Board on 30 January 1969.

      guard commandant and chief of staff respectively, were the authors of the coup, and the reins of authority within the government have rested almost exclusively with them from the beginning.

      Both men have publicly given an appearance of unity, but there are recurring reports of rivalry between them. Both are ambitious, though Martinez seems to be more aggressive and has adeptly placed his followers in key command positions. [redacted]

      Torrijos and Martinez have both expressed antipathy for the country's wealthy oligarchy, whose privileged political position has diminished considerably since the coup. However, the strong call for reform espoused by the government appears to stem principally from Martinez, who has a reputation for honesty that is rare in Panamanian politics. A government dominated solely by Martinez would probably push the pace of reform, making coexistence between the upper-class elite and the military establishment more tenuous. Torrijos is more prone to deal with the old-line politicians and less inclined to press for wholesale changes. Martinez, on the other hand, would probably resort to strong-arm methods to get what he wanted.

      Since the military take-over, the government has issued a number of pronouncements on intended reforms, but its program to date has been vague and one of improvisation. Indeed, there are no indications that the colonels as yet have a well-defined concept of what they seek to accomplish under their military-directed "revolution." Elections of some sort have been promised in 1970, presumably after the electoral machinery has been overhauled to clean up the gross manipulation practiced by the oligarchy in past elections. The outlook for an early return to anything approaching a democratically functioning political system, however, appears bleak.

      Panamanians have long regarded the military with considerable disdain, and the junta government has had little success in eliciting popular support. Indeed, almost all opposition has been either curtailed or crushed. Political parties have been intimidated and neutralized, stringent controls have been laid on the country's news media, and the two largest educational institutions have been shut down to thwart possible student disorders. Panama's small and disorganized extremist groups have been suppressed, and the government has publicly disavowed Communism or any other extremist ideology.

      Consequences for the US
      In this inherently unstable situation, the US is exposed because of the canal. Panama's leaders know that the US stake in the present lock canal and in any future sea-level canal can be used as a lever to apply pressure on Washington. It is doubtful, however, that the government would encourage blatant anti-Americanism except as a last resort. Only if confronted with serious political or economic difficulties would the military leaders risk using the inflammatory canal issue to deflect criticism from themselves. The guard officers are surely aware that if they stimulated the public over some real or imagined issue involving the canal they would be riding a tiger. An aroused populace could easily get out of hand and threaten the junta's rule.

      Differing concepts regarding the future of the canal underlie all relations between the US and Panama. The current government has taken no stand on the draft treaties negotiated by the Robles government during 1964-67, probably because it recognized that the US Government, beset with political problems of its own regarding any diminution of its exclusive rule of the canal, would not settle such a basic matter with a nonconstitutional government. Moreover, the new and inexperienced leadership probably does not feel secure enough at present to raise the complex and controversial treaty issue. The Robles treaty drafts were widely criticized in Panama when details were leaked in 1967. If the junta government accepted these drafts, it would be
      open to charges of selling out to the US. The colonels may be content to let the matter ride until a new legislative assembly is restored under some kind of constitutional trappings. In this case, however, the successor government would push hard Panama's long-standing demands for a larger share of canal revenues and the exercise of sovereignty over the zone. In the meantime, the junta may seek to attain through executive agreement concessions of immediate interest to Panama, such as transfer of some canal zone properties or an increase in the present annuity of $1,930,000.

      Thus far, the military government has professed friendship toward the US. Some resentment over aid restrictions will probably continue and the current US position of restraint is likely to be reciprocated. Barring some unforeseen incident--always possible given the extent of the US presence in the country--no abrupt deterioration in relations is likely. The government may seek to demonstrate its independence from the US to gain more popular support, but the current leadership is not likely to go as far as the Peruvian junta.

      While a more nationalistic attitude can be expected in dealings with the US, there are indications that the guard wants to restore the full flow of economic assistance. There is no reason to believe, however, that the junta would be particularly responsive to US pressure for an early return to elected government. Reduction or prolonged delays in US assistance could damage business confidence, increase economic difficulties, and encourage political opposition. This, in turn, might provoke the colonels into adopting an even more independent stance, which would strain traditionally close ties between the two countries and perhaps prompt the government to resort to blackmail against the US by threatening disorders against the canal.

  • The Foreign Relations of the United States series presents the official documentary historical record of major U.S. foreign policy decisions and significant diplomatic activity. Visit the State Department website for more information.

    Vol. I, Foundations of Foreign Policy, 1969-1972

    Foundations of Foreign Policy, 1969-1972

    • 10. Letter From President Nixon to Secretary of Defense Laird, Washington, February 4, 1969

      Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 220, Agency Files, Department of Defense, Vol. I, 1/12/69. Secret. President Nixon sent an identical letter on February 4 to Secretary of State Rogers. (Ibid., Box 279, Agency Files, Department of State, Vol. I, 1/17/69)

    Vol. II, Organization and Management of U.S. Foreign Policy, 1969-1972

    The Intelligence Community and the White House

    Vol. XII, Soviet Union, January 1969-October 1970

    Initial Contacts, January-April 22, 1969

    • 10. Letter From President Nixon to Secretary of State Rogers, Washington, February 4, 1969

      Source: Library of Congress, Manuscript Division, Kissinger Papers, Box CL 215, “D” File. Secret. Kissinger sent this letter to the President on February 4 for his signature and reminded him that they had cleared the draft that morning. (Ibid.) An identical letter to Secretary of Defense Laird was included for Nixon’s signature. (Ibid.) The letter to Laird is in Foreign Relations, 1969–1976, volume I, Foundations of Foreign Policy, 1969–1972, Document 10.

    Vol. XXIII, Arab-Israeli Dispute, 1969-1972

    The Rogers Plan

    • 5. Minutes of a National Security Council Meeting , Washington, February 4, 1969, 10 a.m.

      Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, NSC Institutional Files (H-Files), Box H–109, NSC Meeting Minutes, NSC Minutes Originals 1969. Top Secret. Drafted on May 1 by Saunders. All brackets are in the original. According to the President’s Daily Diary, the meeting was held in the Cabinet Room from 10:07 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. (Ibid., White House Central Files)

    Vol. XXIX, Eastern Europe, 1969-1972

    Radio Free Europe and Radio Liberty

    Vol. E-5, Part 1, Documents on Sub-Saharan Africa, 1969-1972

    Nigerian Civil War

    • 30. Study Prepared by the NSC Interdepartmental Group on Africa , Washington, February 4, 1969

      Paper I considered relief needs in Nigeria and Biafra and alternative U.S. approaches and programs aimed at expediting and enlarging the flow of relief.

      Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, NSC Institutional Files (H-Files), Box H–20, NSC Meeting, Biafra, Strategic Policy Issues 2/14/69. Secret.

    • 31. Study Prepared by the NSC Interdepartmental Group on Africa , Washington, February 4, 1969

      Paper II considered alternative views of U.S. interests in Nigeria and Biafra, the range of policy choices open to the United States, and the political consequences of the relief courses described in Paper I.

      Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, NSC Institutional Files (H-Files), Box H–20, NSC Meeting, Biafra, Strategic Policy Issues 2/14/69. Secret.

  • The Kissinger telephone conversation transcripts consist of approximately 20,000 pages of transcripts of Kissinger’s telephone conversations during his tenure as Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (1969-1974) and Secretary of State (1973-1974) during the administration of President Richard Nixon. Visit the finding aid for more information.

    Folder February 1-11, 1969

    • 8:35 AM, President Eisenhower; Mr. Kissinger
    • 9:00 AM, Hal Saunders; Mr. Kissinger
    • 12:50 PM, John Walsh; Mr. Kissinger
    • 2:25 PM, Secy Laird; Mr. Kissinger
    • 2:50 PM, Mr. Haldeman; Mr. Kissinger
    • 3:40 PM, Ambassador Lucet (France); Mr. Kissinger
    • 3:55 PM, John Walsh; Mr. Kissinger
    • 5:00 PM, Scott Reston; Mr. Kissinger
    • 5:15 PM, Phillip Potter (Baltimore Sun); Mr. Kissinger
    • 5:35 PM, The President; Mr. Kissinger
    • 5:55 PM, Richard Sneider; Mr. Kissinger
    • 6:00 PM, Sir Patrick Dean (British Ambassador); Mr. Kissinger
    • 7:15 PM, President Eisenhower; Mr. Kissinger
    • 7:35 PM, Secy Laird; Mr. Kissinger
    • 8:05 PM, Herb Klein; Mr. Kissinger
    • 9:50 PM, Robert Ellsworth; Mr. Kissinger
    • 10:15 PM, Mr. Haldeman; Mr. Kissinger

Audiovisual Holdings

  • The White House Photo Office collection consists of photographic coverage of President Richard Nixon meeting with prominent social, political, and cultural personalities; speaking engagements and news conferences of the President and various high-ranking members of the White House staff and Cabinet; Presidential domestic and foreign travel, including Presidential vacations; social events and entertainment involving the First Family, including entertainers present; official portraits of the President, First Family, and high-ranking members of the Nixon administration; the 1969 and 1973 Inaugurals; the President’s 1972 Presidential election campaign appearances (including speeches) and other official activities of the White House staff and the President’s Cabinet from January 20, 1969 until August 9, 1974 at the White House and the Old Executive Office Building; other locations in Washington, DC, such as The Mall; and the Presidential retreats in Camp David, Maryland, Key Biscayne, Florida, and San Clemente, California. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    Roll WHPO-0199 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-01, President Nixon speaking at the microphone before the Swearing-in ceremony for Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) members. Standing nearby are, military aides, Ron Ziegler, Herb Stein, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Chairman Paul McCracken, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Director of the Emergency Preparedness Office George A. Lincoln, and Chief Supreme Court Justice Warren Burger. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Justice Warren E. Burger, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, George A. Lincoln, Hendrik S. Houthakker, H. Stein, Paul W. McCracken,Ron Ziegler, unidentified family members and military aides.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-02-05, Supreme Court Justice Warren Burger administers the Swearing-in ceremony for Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) members; Herb Stein, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Chairman Paul McCracken, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Director of the Emergency Preparedness Office George A. Lincoln, and Chief. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Justice Warren E. Burger, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, George A. Lincoln, Hendrik S. Houthakker, H. Stein, Paul W. McCracken,Ron Ziegler, unidentified family members and military aides.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-06-08, Supreme Court Justice Warren Burger administers the Swearing-in ceremony for Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) member. Mrs. Burns is holding the bible. Standing nearby are President Nixon, Herb Stein, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Chairman Paul McCracken, Director of the Emergency. Preparedness Office George A. Lincoln. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Justice Warren E. Burger, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, George A. Lincoln, Hendrik S. Houthakker, H. Stein, Paul W. McCracken,Ron Ziegler, unidentified family members and military aides.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-09-10, Supreme Court Justice Warren Burger administers the Swearing-in ceremony for Director of the Emergency Preparedness Office George A. Lincoln. Mrs. Lincoln is holding the bible. Standing nearby are President Nixon, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Herb Stein, Hendrik S. Houthakker, and Chairman Paul McCracken. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Justice Warren E. Burger, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, George A. Lincoln, Hendrik S. Houthakker, H. Stein, Paul W. McCracken,Ron Ziegler, unidentified family members and military aides.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-11, A portrait of President Nixon stamding with the McCracken family, after the Swearing-in ceremony for Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) Chairman Paul McCracken. Pictured: Mrs. Paul McCracken,Paula McCracken, Linda McCracken, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Herb Stein, Hendrik S. Houthakker, and George A. Lincoln. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Mrs. Paul McCracken, Paula McCracken, Linda McCracken, Paul W. McCracken, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, George A. Lincoln, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Herb Stein.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-12, President Nixon with the Stein family, after the Swearing-in ceremony for Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) member Herbert G. Stein. Pictured: Herb Stein, Mrs. Herbert G. Stein, Melvin Epstein, Rachel Epstein, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, , Hendrik S. Houthakker, Paul W. McCracken, and George A. Lincoln. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Herbert G. Stein, Mrs. Herbert G. Stein, Melvin Epstein, Rachel Epstein, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Paul W. McCracken, and George A. Lincoln.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0199-13-14, President Nixon with the Houthakker family, after the Swearing-in ceremony for Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) member Hendrik S. Houthakker. Pictured: Hendrik S. Houthakker, Mrs. Houthakker, Jan Nicolas Houthakker, Isabella Houthakker, Counselor to the President Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Paul W. McCracken, and George A. Lincoln. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House, Fish Room. President Nixon, Hendrik S. Houthakker, Mrs. Houthakker, Jan Nicolas Houthakker, Isabella Houthakker, Dr. Arthur F. Burns, Paul W. McCracken, Herb Stein, and George A. Lincoln.

    Roll WHPO-0201 Photographer: Kightlinger, Jack | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-0201-04-09, Standing head and shoulders portrait of J. Bruce Whelihan, aide to Press Secretary Ron Ziegler. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. J. Bruce Whelihan.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0201-10-19, Standing portrait of J. Bruce Whelihan, aide to Press Secretary Ron Ziegler. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. J. Bruce Whelihan.

    Roll WHPO-0202 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-0202-00A-03A, President Nixon, Sec. of Labor George Shultz, unidentified Labor Department officials. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George P. Shultz, unidentified officials.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0202-04A, President Nixon, Sec. of Labor George Shultz, unidentified Labor Department officials. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George P. Shultz, unidentified officials.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0202-07A-11A, President Nixon and military aide, seen from behind, walking to the White House along the grounds. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. White House. President Nixon, unidentified military aide.

    Roll WHPO-0203 Photographer: Atkins, Oliver | Color or B&W: B&W

    • Frame(s): WHPO-0203-01A, President Nixon entering the Dept. of Labor. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George Shultz, James D. Hodgson, Arnold Weber, William Usery, Jr., Geoffery Moore, George L. P. Weaver, Elizabeth Koontz, Leo Wertz, David Taylor, unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0203-02A-03A, Group portrait of President Nixon and and Dept. of Labor leaders including George Shultz, James Hodgson, Arnold Weber, William Usery, Jr., Geoffery Moore, George L. P. Weaver, Elizabeth Koontz, Leo Wertz and David Taylor. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George Shultz, James D. Hodgson, Arnold Weber, William Usery, Jr., Geoffery Moore, George L. P. Weaver, Elizabeth Koontz, Leo Wertz, David Taylor, unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0203-04A-05A, President Nixon addressing an audience at the Dept. of Labor auditorium. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George Shultz, James D. Hodgson, Arnold Weber, William Usery, Jr., Geoffery Moore, George L. P. Weaver, Elizabeth Koontz, Leo Wertz, David Taylor, unidentified persons.
    • Frame(s): WHPO-0203-06A, President Nixon leaving the Dept. of Labor. 2/4/1969, Washington, D.C. Department of Labor. President Nixon, George Shultz, James Day Hodgson, Arnold Weber, William Usery, Jr., Geoffery Moore, George L. P. Weaver, Elizabeth Koontz, Leo Wertz, David Taylor, unidentified persons.

  • The White House Communications Agency Sound Recordings Collection contains public statements that took place between 1969 and 1974. Visit the finding aid to learn more.

    P - Formal Presidential Remarks

    • WHCA-SR-P-690205
      Remarks by President Nixon at swearing-in for Council of Economic Advisors (CEA). (2/4/1969, Fish Room, White House)

      Runtime: 8:00

      Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.
    • WHCA-SR-P-690206
      Remarks by President Nixon to officials in Labor of Dept. (Department of Labor Auditorium), sec. Schultz [Possible Copyright]. (2/4/1969)

      Runtime: 12:11

      Original Format: 1/4-inch reel-to-reel audiotape. Original source type: Original.

Context (External Sources)