"While he was president, it was popular to be a Nixon hater"

The quote by Earl Butz, "While he was president, it was popular to be a Nixon hater", can be translated as a reflection on the social and political environment surrounding Richard Nixon during his presidency, especially in the context of the events that defined his time in workplace. Butz's statement suggests that a substantial portion of the general public and media embraced an important position towards Nixon, making it fashionable to express ridicule or opposition towards him.

During his presidency (1969-1974), Nixon faced significant debate and analysis, culminating in the Watergate scandal. The scandal, which involved a burglary at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up by Nixon's administration, wore down public trust and marked a substantial political scandal in American history. As information emerged, media protection magnified, casting Nixon in an increasingly unfavorable light and thereby affecting public opinion.

The concept that it was "popular" to be a Nixon hater indicates that opposing Nixon ended up being a pattern or standard among a large sector of society, including political figures, activists, and typical citizens. This sentiment was most likely fueled by dissatisfaction with his policies, his handling of the Vietnam War, and his perceived ethical imperfections. The counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s, which promoted civil rights and anti-war beliefs, also contributed to this vital position, as Nixon represented conservative opposition to a lot of these ideals.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the wider phenomenon of political polarization, where leaders end up being polarizing figures, drawing in both staunch fans and vehement critics. This polarization frequently manifests in a social environment where criticism ends up being not only widespread but also a marker of one's political identity.

In conclusion, Butz's quote encapsulates a period in American history where Richard Nixon ended up being a focal point of prevalent public dissatisfaction and controversy. It reflects how political and social movements, media stories, and the unfolding of significant political scandals can assemble, making dissent against a political figure both fashionable and extensive.