The President of the United States Meets the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
The President of the United States Meets the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll looks behind the scenes at Elvis Presley’s December 21, 1970, visit to Richard Nixon’s White House through the examination of White House memos, documents, firsthand accounts, and photographs.
President Richard Nixon and Elvis Presley in the Oval Office on December 21, 1970.
Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum/NARADo you recognize this famous photograph? This image of President Richard Nixon shaking hands with Elvis Presley in the Oval Office is one of the most requested photographs from the National Archives and Records Administration. Although the photograph is iconic, the story behind this impromptu historic meeting is even more remarkable.
The President of the United States Meets the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
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The Letter
On December 21, 1970, Elvis Presley appeared at the northwest gate of the White House with a six-page letter, requesting a meeting with the president.
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The Preparation
Elvis Presley’s letter to President Nixon soon made its way through the West Wing. Over the course of the next several hours, White House staff prepared for the meeting.
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The Meeting
That afternoon, Deputy Assistant to the President Bud Krogh ushered Elvis Presley into the Oval Office to meet President Richard Nixon.
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The Aftermath
Following the meeting, Bud Krogh accompanied the trio out of the Oval Office and took the group to lunch in the West Wing’s Navy Mess, where Elvis was met with shocked stares from other staff members.
This exhibit is curated by White House Historical Association historian Lina Mann. To learn more about this historic visit, check out the accompanying article here.
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