How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph.Sentence)
Quote #1
The war was causing deep division at home and criticism from many of our friends as well as our enemies abroad.
In view of these circumstances there were some who urged that I end the war at once by ordering the immediate withdrawal of all American forces. (15.1-16.1)
Haters gonna hate. That's basically what Nixon wants to say here. He's calling all those dissatisfied Americans (the anti-war protestors, participants in the civil rights movement, the feminists) a bunch of haters. He even puts them in the same category as those "enemies abroad." Ouch.
Quote #2
Now, many believe that President Johnson's decision to send American combat forces to South Vietnam was wrong. And many others—I among them—have been strongly critical of the way the war has been conducted. (23.1-23.2)
Richard "Tricky Dick" Nixon wouldn't be remembered for his amazing foresight and truth-telling abilities, but he's telling the truth here.
Nixon admits that he himself was one of those standing in the dissatisfied line. He didn't like the situation in Vietnam. That's the truth. He also promises a swift and painless end to the war—that was a lie.
Quote #3
For the United States, this first defeat in our Nation's history would result in a collapse of confidence in American leadership, not only in Asia but throughout the world. (30.1)
Richard "Tricky Dick" Nixon would not be remembered for his amazing foresight and truth-telling abilities, but he definitely hit the nail on the head here. The United States did experience a loss of confidence in American leadership shortly after losing the war in Vietnam. Unfortunately for him, this was largely due to his decision-making and largely due to the fact that he resigned from the presidency under shady circumstances.