Historically Accurate | 12/21/2020

What brought Elvis and Nixon together on December 21, 1970? A Narcotics badge.  In the first episode of Historically Accurate, host Dawn-Michelle Lewis and Katie Lewis, a King-Sized Elvis fan (and Dawn-Michelle’s sister) sit down and talk about this strange historical moment, which happened 50 years ago today.
The photo that was taken of Elvis and President Nixon on December 21, 1970 is one of the most requested archival photos in world history. But that meeting wasn’t just about the press - Elvis was on a mission. He wanted to be an undercover Narcotics agent, and he wanted the badge to prove it.
Dawn-Michelle and Katie provide an overview of this historical moment, including background on Elvis, Richard Nixon, Kent State, and the Watergate Scandal. They also debunk some Elvis myths, both about this meeting and some of other Elvis oddities (like the myth that he enjoyed doing karate for various American mayors).

So what happened? Did Elvis get his narc badge? Did he fight crime from inside his rock and roll kingdom? Tune in this week to find out.
Citations:

Carlson, Peter. “When Elvis Met Nixon.” Smithsonian.com, Smithsonian Institution, 1 Dec. 2010, www.smithsonianmag.com/history/when-elvis-met-nixon-69892425/.

History.com Editors. “President Nixon Meets Elvis Presley.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, 16 Nov. 2009, www.history.com/this-day-in-history/nixon-meets-elvis-presley.

Waxman, Olivia B. “Elvis Presley and Richard Nixon: The Story Behind the Photo.” Time, Time, 15 Aug. 2017, time.com/4894301/elvis-president-nixon-photo/.
Quotes:

“Mr. President, do you know who I am? Do you know who I am? I’m Elvis.” (16:12-16:17)


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