Why did President Ford believe it was necessary to pardonRichard Nixon?A. Ford repaid Nixon for appointing him vice president.B. Ford thought the public wanted Nixon to be pardoned.C. Ford wanted to end the criminal investigations intoNixon's actions.D. Ford claimed that a long, drawn-out trial would furtherdivide the public.Answer is d ​

 President Gerald Ford believed that pardoning Richard Nixon was necessary to prevent further division and turmoil within the United States. Following the Watergate scandal and Nixon's subsequent resignation from the presidency, the nation was deeply divided and still recovering from the political and constitutional crisis. Ford assumed the presidency after Nixon's resignation and was faced with the decision of how to address the legal proceedings against Nixon.

Ford was concerned that a long, drawn-out trial would consume the country's attention, obstruct the healing process, and prevent the government from focusing on other pressing issues. On September 8, 1974, Ford granted Nixon a full and unconditional pardon for any crimes he might have committed against the United States while president. In his statement, Ford explained that he wanted to put the Watergate scandal behind the nation, stating that the pardon was in the best interests of the country and that "our long national nightmare is over."

Ford's decision was controversial and had a significant impact on his political standing, contributing to his defeat in the 1976 presidential election. However, his intention was to avoid further polarization and to promote national unity and healing.