When Warren G. Harding died about halfway through his term as president of the United States, he was unaware that several scandals would become the most remarkable events of his administration. Shortly after his death, the public learned that some of his appointees had defrauded (cheated) the government of millions, taken illegal kickbacks (secret payments) from private industry, and sold federal oil leases without proper approval.

A career politician, Harding rewarded his strongest supporters with important government posts when he was elected president. Those friends took advantage of Harding's trusting nature. But Harding had personal scandals as well. Although his wife, Florence Harding (1860-1924; see entry in volume 4), was the model of a modern, independent woman and an ambitious supporter for many of his plans, Harding indulged in extramarital affairs with at least two other women. One of them, Nan Britton (1896-1991), published a...