Discuss the role of President Richard Nixon in the Civil Rights Movement.

President Richard Nixon played a complex role in the Civil Rights Movement, implementing policies that both advanced and hindered racial equality.

Richard Nixon's presidency (1969-1974) coincided with a critical period in the Civil Rights Movement. His role in the movement is often viewed as contradictory, as he both advanced and hindered the cause of racial equality in the United States. Nixon's administration was marked by a 'Southern Strategy' that sought to appeal to white voters in the South who were disgruntled by the rapid pace of desegregation. This strategy involved slowing down the implementation of civil rights policies and opposing busing to achieve racial integration in schools.

However, Nixon also made significant contributions to the advancement of civil rights. His administration oversaw the implementation of affirmative action policies in federal contracting, which aimed to redress historical racial injustices. These policies required federal contractors to make efforts to hire minorities and women, marking a significant step towards racial equality in the workplace.

Nixon's administration also enforced the desegregation of Southern schools. Despite his opposition to busing, Nixon complied with court orders to desegregate schools in the South. By the end of his first term, the percentage of African American students attending segregated schools in the South had significantly decreased.

Nixon's approach to civil rights was largely pragmatic and politically motivated. He sought to balance the demands of various constituencies, including Southern whites, Northern liberals, and African Americans. His policies reflected this balancing act, as he both slowed down and advanced the cause of racial equality.

In conclusion, Nixon's role in the Civil Rights Movement was complex and multifaceted. While his 'Southern Strategy' and opposition to busing hindered the progress of racial equality, his enforcement of school desegregation and implementation of affirmative action policies advanced the cause. His approach to civil rights was largely shaped by political considerations, reflecting the complexities and contradictions of the Civil Rights Movement during this period.