On Tuesday, August 5, 1974, shortly after the Supreme Court ruled in the landmark case United States v. Nixon, President Richard Nixon released the so-called "smoking gun" tape. This tape contained recordings that were critical to the unfolding Watergate scandal and significantly impacted public and political perceptions of the President.

The release came as a direct consequence of the Supreme Court's decision, which compelled Nixon to comply with demands for evidence related to the investigation. The disclosure marked a turning point in Supreme Court history and American politics.

This event is commemorated in Supreme Court history for its profound implications on executive privilege and the rule of law in the United States.

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