Abscam Affair
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History: North American Series
- Categories: Government and Politics, Crime, Law, Legal History, Courts
- Subcategories: Congress, Senate, Senators, House of Representatives, Politicians, Diplomats, Scandals, Trials, Judges, Lawyers, Corruption, Fraud
- Curriculum: American History 1951-present
- Geographical Location: Washington, D.C.
- Date: February, 1980-March 11, 1982
Article abstract: The conviction of seven members of Congress on bribery-related charges spurs public cynicism toward elected officials.
Summary of Event
In February, 1980, the U.S. public was shocked to learn that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) had conducted a probe that allegedly had uncovered serious violations of the law by at least seven members of Congress and other politicians. During the probe, undercover agents had posed as Arab men operating a business called Abdul Enterprises. These agents met with members of Congress and local...
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