THE TEAPOT DOME SCANDAL: A NATIONAL INCIDENT

The Teapot Dome Scandal of 1921 was definitely not a minor occurrence. Albert Fall's immature actions could have caused much larger issues for this country, if he were not caught. The fault falls partially on the president as well; Warren G. Harding hired Fall personally to the position of Secretary of Interior, and it was he who was convinced by Fall to transfer the control of the navy petroleum reserves to the Department of Interior. The reveal of scandal then calls to question the judgment of the president, as well as the morality of others in high positions in government. This occurrence just supports the fact that American citizens may not actually be able to trust the men they elect to run this country. Also, the petroleum reserves that Fall loaned to a private business for personal bribes were supposed to be used only by the American Navy and only in times of emergency. If a national emergency had arose at the time the Wyoming reserves were being secretly loaned out, the Navy would have no access to the reserve, which could cause large problems and leave them without enough fuel to power their vessels. This fact would certainly affect the whole country, which is why Fall's rash and selfish decision is a national scandal, involving all of America,many should not be forgotten and thought of as only a minor occurrence.