FEATURED ESSAYS 1. Courageous John Quincy Adams 2. John Quincy Adams 3. John Quincy Adams 4. Abigail Adams 5. Abigail Adams 6. Abigail Adams 7. Abigail Adams 8. Profiles In Courage 9. Profiles Of Courage 10. Henry Adams, Virgin And The Dy 11. John Adams 12. The Greatest Accomplishment Of Pr... 13. Henry Adams 14. Abigail Adams: Her Contributions

John Quincy Adams


    Hello, I'm John Quincy Adams.  I grew up in Braintree, Massachusetts,
and when I became an adult I traveled with my father on his diplomatic
missions until I became interested in political journalism at Harvard and
eventually became he sixth president of the United States.  During my
lifetime, from 1767 to 1848, the United States was desperately trying to
make allies, as the country was in it's infancy.  I followed my father's
footsteps, as I was working in foreign relations before I became President.
I have experienced many great events, such as when I was appointed as
minister to the Netherlands, a mere three days later I witnessed the French
invade the country and overthrow the Dutch Republic.  This was thought of
by many as an attempt for the French to show the United States how strong
it was, without exerting any force on them at all.  On a different occasion,
when I was appointed minister to Russia, I was the leading negotiator for
the Treaty of Ghent with the British, which ended the War of 1812.  These
negotiations gained respect for the United States and me as a diplomat.  I
am a likable person wherever I go.  When I was a kid, our family was very
closely knit, as we all helped manage the farm, except for my dad, who was
usually away in foreign countries.  This didn't affect me very much since I
joined up with him when I was 11 on his operations after my persistent
asking.  As President, I worked scrupulously to work out problems and
provide leadership for the country.  This was acknowledged by my fellow
officials in office and by the country, as I'm thought of as a person with
integrity and honesty.  Louisa Catherine Adams, my wife, holds a special
place in my heart.  She has always been trustworthy and nice.  As a child
she had to deal with ill health frequently, (which often recurs), and as
First Lady she held brilliant parties for my Cabinet and friends. Louisa
and I had four children, but sadly they all died before they could have
children of their own, all for various reasons. My only real enemy to speak
of is Andrew Jackson.  Before my administration, Jackson and his followers
accused me of promising Henry Clay a cabinet post in return for his support.
 After I was elected, and I appointed Clay Secretary of State, Jackson's
strong followers in Congress called it a 'corrupt bargain'.  This dispute
forever split the Democratic-Republican Party, and mine is now known as the
National Republicans.  Throughout my life in politics, I was just concerned
with providing the country with leadership to the best of my ability.  I
realized all my actions would influence everyone after me, so it wasn't
just my administration I was providing for.  I'm very fortunate to have a
father like I did.  I didn't have very many obstacles to overcome on my way
into the White House, since my father really led me into position, right up
to his support for me as President, which influenced even more people to
vote for me.  I consider the split of the parties an obstacle to overcome
since if it weren't for the intense campaigning afterward, I probably
wouldn't have been elected since I lost much support from that event. 
Nothing is really funny in my life since I am often saddened by my wife's
frequent illnesses and charges from Jackson. Throughout my life in politics,
it has usually just been being a different minister for a different country
before settling in the White House.  I have often been misunderstood, due
to the fact of my philosophy to change things for the better, which the
people of this country aren't always ready for.  For instance, at my
inaugural speech in front of Congress, I proposed a plan for national
improvements, such as highways, universities, and weather stations.  They
didn't buy into it, but I have a feeling they will realize one day that it
needs to be done, but it's a shame not I don't think they will in my
lifetime.  If I had my life to do over again, I would probably not have
appointed Henry Clay as Secretary of State.  As much of a dear friend he is,
it caused much trouble throughout my political life. The accusations
started the minute I appointed him.  I feel I deserve credit for helping to
set this country on the right path towards freedom, prosperity, and loyalty
to the country.  Although they might not appreciate it now, I'm confident
future generations will follow my lead to make this country the best it can
be.  For this generation I can offer this; Once you set your goals, never
give up.  I had numerous jobs as minister and ambassadors to many different
countries before I finally won the election to become the President.  The
path I traveled wasn't easy, but I believe my hard work paid off. If I were
alive today I would probably take revenge on all those crooked politicians
I've been hearing about who take bribes and shred confidential documents. 
They deteriorate the fabric this country was built on, and it will be a
long time before it is fully repaired.