Gerald Ford became the 38th president of the United States following Richard Nixon's resignation, in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal. Early Years and Congressional Career . He signed the Helsinki accords. Gerald Rudolph Ford Jr. was born in … Answer and Explanation: Gerald Ford is best known for having pardoned Richard Nixon for his role in the Watergate scandal. Gerald R. Ford is known for two firsts: he gave a Presidential Pardon to the only resigned President (Richard Nixon), and he is the only American to have served as Vice-President and President without being elected to either office. How well do you know former president Gerald Ford (1913 - 2006)? President Leslie? He is the only man to become president without having been elected to the office of president or vice president. Watch a preview of the two-night event Presidents at War, premiering Sunday, February 17 at 8/7c.. 1. Gerald Rudolf Ford Jr (1913 – 2006) was a United States politician who served as the 38th President of the United States from 9th August 1974 to 20th January 1977.Born as Leslie Lynch King Jr, he studied at the University of Michigan and Yale School of Law.He served in the United States Naval Reserve during World War II and was a lieutenant commander by the time of his exit in 1946. Here are 10 facts about the 38th president of the United States. Courtesy Gerald R. Ford Library Betty Ford Betty Ford… Gerald Ford. Many people believe that this act cost him the 1976 presidential election. We need you to answer this question! What is Gerald Ford most known for? Growing Up Gerald Ford was born in Nebraska, but while he was still a baby his parents were divorced. He is the only president who has not been elected to the office of either President or Vice President. What was Gerald r ford known for? Gerald Ford: football at the University of Michigan Gerald Ford as a member of the University of Michigan's football team, 1933. Gerald Ford became president amidst the scandals of his predecessor Richard Nixon. Gerald Rudolph "Jerry" Ford, Jr. (born Leslie Lynch King, Jr.; July 14, 1913 — December 26, 2006) was the 38th President of the United States from 1974 to 1977. Gerald Ford was the 38th president of United States.