Why did Charlie Chaplin return to the United States in 1972?

Charlie Chaplin returned to the United States in 1972 for the first time in 20 years to accept a special Academy Award. The honor was bestowed in recognition of the incalculable effect he had on making motion pictures the art form of the 20th century.1

Although the homecoming was described as bittersweet—as Chaplin had come to deplore the United States following his forced exile due to political and moral scrutiny—he was visibly moved by the 12-minute standing ovation he received during the ceremony.1