John Quincy Adams

A new Library of America edition of John Quincy Adams’s writings demonstrates the enduring appeal—and real shortcomings—of his revolutionary conservatism.

We must stand by the principles of the open society, pluralism, freedom, and mutual toleration.

Historians may never speak of an “Age of Adams” to rival Andrew Jackson, but Randall Woods’s new biography reveals the sixth president’s greatness.

Since 1823, when the Monroe Doctrine was first introduced to the world, the US has regarded Cuba as key to its designs for Latin America.

The story of John Quincy Adams’ forgotten epic poem—and its most critical reader.

Adams, whose 250th birthday is today, did not end slavery but his battle against the House "Gag Rule" helped pave the way.

On the occasion of his 250th birthday, the making of our sixth president in his own words.

The sixth president, long derided as a hapless elitist, is suddenly relevant again 250 years after his birth.

Fred Kaplan's new book asks why it took Abraham Lincoln so long to embrace emancipation.

The rejection that ended Morse's art career eventually led to the invention of the telegraph.

The political upheaval of 1824 changed America. The same could happen in 2024.

Over the course of U.S. history, presidential rematches have signaled momentous political upheavals.

In 1836, the House passed a resolution that automatically tabled all petitions on slavery without a hearing.

The story of America is precisely the heroic story of pioneers who bring the American ideal again and again to the West.

Long before President Donald Trump, there was President John Tyler.

From the Framers on, Americans have understood our fundamental law to oppose ownership of persons.

Father and son alike, suspicious of too much charisma.

Outlandish rumors helped elect Presidents Jackson and Van Buren and have been with us ever since.

Presidents who win the electoral college but lose the popular vote never really recover.

In the 1840s and 1850s, it was all too common.