How was President Nixon often described?

President Nixon was frequently characterized as a "little man in a big hurt" with a "mean streak," which reflects a perception of him as somewhat insecure and complex in his personality. This description captures Nixon's struggles with self-image and his ambitious nature, portraying a man who was often seen as deeply troubled by the enormity of his responsibilities and the challenges he faced while in office. Nixon's political style was often aggressive, suggesting that his mean streak may have referred to his abrasive tactics and willingness to engage in political warfare. This characterization also positions Nixon within the context of the tumultuous political landscape of the late 1960s and early 1970s, highlighting how his insecurities may have influenced his decisions and interactions with others, including rivals and allies.

While Nixon did have moments of calm and poise, especially during his foreign policy achievements, these traits do not encompass the complexity of his character. Similarly, while he made some strides in desegregation, especially in relation to schools and the Southern Strategy, this aspect alone does not convey the broader narrative of his presidency, which was marked by deep controversies including Watergate. Ultimately, the description as a "little man in a big hurt" captures more of the essence of Nixon's presidency