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John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, a Private Life
February 21, 1848, the House of Representatives, Washington, Congressman John Quincy Adams, rising to speak, suddenly collapses at his desk; two days later, he dies in the Speaker's chamber. The public mourning that followed, writes Paul C. Nagel, "exceeded anything previously seen in America." Forgotten was his failed presidency and his often cold demeanor. It was the memory of an extraordinary human being--one who in his last years had fought heroically for the right of petition and against a war to expand slavery--that drew a grateful people to salute his coffin in the Capitol and to stand by the railroad tracks as his bier was transported from Washington to Boston. Nagel probes deeply into the psyche of this cantankerous, misanthropic, erudite, hardworking son of a former president whose remarkable career spanned many minister to Holland, Russia, and England, U.S. senator, secretary of state, president of the United States (1825-1829), and, finally, U.S. representative (the only ex-president to serve in the House). On the basis of a thorough study of Adams' seventy-year diary, among a host of other documents, the author gives us a richer account than we have yet had of JQA's life--his passionate marriage to Louisa Johnson, his personal tragedies (two sons lost to alcoholism), his brilliant diplomacy, his recurring depression, his exasperating behavior--and shows us why, in the end, only Abraham Lincoln's death evoked a greater outpouring of national sorrow in nineteenth-century America. We come to see how much Adams disliked politics and hoped for more from life than high office; how he sought distinction in literary and scientific endeavors, and drew his greatest pleasure from being a poet, critic, translator, essayist, botanist, and professor of oratory at Harvard; how tension between the public and private Adams vexed his life; and how his frustrations kept him masked and aloof (and unpopular). Nagel's great achievement, in this first biography of America's sixth president in a quarter century, is finally to portray Adams in all his talent and complexity.
432 pages, Hardcover
First published September 30, 1997
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August 5, 2025
"President Adam's became more determined to remain his own man—and, as he thought, the people's man. pg 304"
The story of 6th president John Quincy Adams (JQA) was a unique one in my opinion. This was because he started out as a young promising man with the aptitude for greatness. His father, American Revolutionary War leader & 2nd president John Adams, took abroad throughout Europe as he was posted at various countries as an ambassador. JQA quickly absorbed the customs & cultures, even learning the languages he lived in. His exposure in the diplomatic sense trained him for art of politics and diplomacy.
He became a lawyer after graduating from college and took up a foreign diplomatic post. He helped settle the Treaty of Ghent that ended the War of 1812. He then became the Secretary of State for president James Monroe and helped architect the Monroe Doctrine. He became president in 1824 but was extremely weak and ineffective. In the sense, he was a man of the people but not of the people. As a president he planned on building roads, canals, and a national university. But opposition in the Congress consistently shot down all his bills passed through legislation.
He was defeated against Andrew Jackson in 1828 and then became a member of Congress. His career as a Senator mainly revolved around human rights and advocating for rights & abolishing slavery. JQA was a fast rising and accomplished diplomat but not a good president.
Overall this a simple and clear-cut book. It was not difficult to read and presented the material in a neutral way. I would recommend it to anyone interested in early American politics. Thanks!
The story of 6th president John Quincy Adams (JQA) was a unique one in my opinion. This was because he started out as a young promising man with the aptitude for greatness. His father, American Revolutionary War leader & 2nd president John Adams, took abroad throughout Europe as he was posted at various countries as an ambassador. JQA quickly absorbed the customs & cultures, even learning the languages he lived in. His exposure in the diplomatic sense trained him for art of politics and diplomacy.
He became a lawyer after graduating from college and took up a foreign diplomatic post. He helped settle the Treaty of Ghent that ended the War of 1812. He then became the Secretary of State for president James Monroe and helped architect the Monroe Doctrine. He became president in 1824 but was extremely weak and ineffective. In the sense, he was a man of the people but not of the people. As a president he planned on building roads, canals, and a national university. But opposition in the Congress consistently shot down all his bills passed through legislation.
He was defeated against Andrew Jackson in 1828 and then became a member of Congress. His career as a Senator mainly revolved around human rights and advocating for rights & abolishing slavery. JQA was a fast rising and accomplished diplomat but not a good president.
Overall this a simple and clear-cut book. It was not difficult to read and presented the material in a neutral way. I would recommend it to anyone interested in early American politics. Thanks!
March 20, 2014
If I were John Quincy Adams (oft' referred to as JQA), much of this review would likely consist of chastising myself for not having the discipline or talent to write a better review. I mean, this was a guy who wasseriously full of self-reproach. If he didn't have an internal proclivity for finding fault in himself, it's likely that growing up the first-born son of John and Abigail Adams would have steered him in that direction.
The elder John Adams brought JQA (who was only 14 or so at the time) across the pond with him when he had to attend to his diplomatic duties. While Paul Nagel may have been a bit harsh when it came to laying blame on Abigail for JQA's tortured soul, having read this as well as First Family: Abigail and John Adams (both of which contain numerous letters between family members), it's clear that John became a bit of a go-between in the more difficult days of the Adams Family marriage. In all fairness, Abigail was a bit of a nag, and had a propensity for passive aggressive guilt tripping.
Nevertheless, JQA survived his bumpy road, winding through European schools, Harvard, a law practice for which he found himself ill-suited. Like his father, he had his own diplomatic missions and was brought back stateside to become Secretary of State to James Monroe and (duh), ultimately, president. Nagel points out that some might find it odd that only a single chapter in the biography was dedicated to Adams' presidency, but it really was a bit of a stalemate.
JQA set out to write a great diary (noting that the post-stroke sections should be counted as an Afterword), and Nagel makes good use of the excellent material at hand. Adams can be a remarkably frustrating guy. Even in his twilight years, on what should have been his victory tour, he criticizes himself for perhaps basking in the glory of it all too much. He was never one to take a rest. There's some comfort in the knowledge that he was, undoubtedly, his own worst enemy. Here's hoping he's not lying in his coffin wishing he could find a way to decompose more efficiently.
Three and a half stars that I will willingly round up to four because, seriously, someone needs to give the guy a break.
The elder John Adams brought JQA (who was only 14 or so at the time) across the pond with him when he had to attend to his diplomatic duties. While Paul Nagel may have been a bit harsh when it came to laying blame on Abigail for JQA's tortured soul, having read this as well as First Family: Abigail and John Adams (both of which contain numerous letters between family members), it's clear that John became a bit of a go-between in the more difficult days of the Adams Family marriage. In all fairness, Abigail was a bit of a nag, and had a propensity for passive aggressive guilt tripping.
Nevertheless, JQA survived his bumpy road, winding through European schools, Harvard, a law practice for which he found himself ill-suited. Like his father, he had his own diplomatic missions and was brought back stateside to become Secretary of State to James Monroe and (duh), ultimately, president. Nagel points out that some might find it odd that only a single chapter in the biography was dedicated to Adams' presidency, but it really was a bit of a stalemate.
JQA set out to write a great diary (noting that the post-stroke sections should be counted as an Afterword), and Nagel makes good use of the excellent material at hand. Adams can be a remarkably frustrating guy. Even in his twilight years, on what should have been his victory tour, he criticizes himself for perhaps basking in the glory of it all too much. He was never one to take a rest. There's some comfort in the knowledge that he was, undoubtedly, his own worst enemy. Here's hoping he's not lying in his coffin wishing he could find a way to decompose more efficiently.
Three and a half stars that I will willingly round up to four because, seriously, someone needs to give the guy a break.
November 14, 2022
Drawing on John Quincy Adams’s voluminous diaries, this narrative non-fiction provides insight into the character and actions of the sixth President of the US. The primary strength of this book is portraying what Adams was like as a person. As an extremely intelligent young man, he traveled and was educated in Europe, accompanying his father, John Adams, in his service as a US Ambassador. He comes across as complex, self-critical, stubborn, disciplined, religious, and honorable. He experienced episodes of depression, which occurred periodically throughout his life (at a time when very little could be done for it).
This work follows his entire life. It is written in a chronological, straight-forward manner. At a time when few Americans had the chance to travel extensively, JQA visited France, Spain, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany, and Russia. He learned many languages and was fluent in French. The narrative covers his education at Harvard and his legal practice, which he viewed as a rather boring occupation. It covers his marriage to Englishwoman Louisa Johnson, children, and the death of his infant daughter in Russia. Two of his sons died in their thirties, one from an apparent suicide and the other from alcohol abuse.
It follows his service as a diplomat and political career, serving as Secretary of State under James Monroe. His presidency was one of the most difficult periods of his life, facing Congressional opposition and making several rather naïve mistakes. Afterward, he became a member of the House of Representatives and served in this capacity until his death at age 81.
I particularly enjoyed reading about his role in defending the slaves of the Amistad, his lifelong opposition to slavery, his poetry writings, and relationship with his mother, Abigail Adams. It lacks footnotes, but it is obvious that the majority of content came from JQA’s journals. As I continue my project of reading US presidential biographies in order, I am glad to have discovered this one.
This work follows his entire life. It is written in a chronological, straight-forward manner. At a time when few Americans had the chance to travel extensively, JQA visited France, Spain, the Netherlands, Great Britain, Germany, and Russia. He learned many languages and was fluent in French. The narrative covers his education at Harvard and his legal practice, which he viewed as a rather boring occupation. It covers his marriage to Englishwoman Louisa Johnson, children, and the death of his infant daughter in Russia. Two of his sons died in their thirties, one from an apparent suicide and the other from alcohol abuse.
It follows his service as a diplomat and political career, serving as Secretary of State under James Monroe. His presidency was one of the most difficult periods of his life, facing Congressional opposition and making several rather naïve mistakes. Afterward, he became a member of the House of Representatives and served in this capacity until his death at age 81.
I particularly enjoyed reading about his role in defending the slaves of the Amistad, his lifelong opposition to slavery, his poetry writings, and relationship with his mother, Abigail Adams. It lacks footnotes, but it is obvious that the majority of content came from JQA’s journals. As I continue my project of reading US presidential biographies in order, I am glad to have discovered this one.
January 27, 2024
Even better the second time around!!!
February 22, 2021
Hey, remember the 90's? This book was written less than a quarter-century ago, but somehow seems older. The writing can often be somewhat stiff and starchy, in the style of a book that might have been written decades earlier. And author Paul Nagel famously purchased and took physical possession of more than 600 reels of microfilm representing most of Adams' papers - many of them otherwise unpublished at the time - and in his source notes, he helpfully provides the precise numbered reels where certain information can be found, for the benefit of future historians. Or at least for those historians who live in an alternate timeline where the internet was never invented.
Snark aside, this book today seems to exist as something of a product of its time - a notable work of scholarship in an era when not much was written about John Quincy Adams. It's been far eclipsed, however, by a plethora of more recent works on the man.
In his effort to focus on both the "public life" and "private life" of his subject, Nagel achieves his goal of revealing the "inner Adams," as opposed to focusing primarily on Adams' life in public service. But the inner Adams is explored almost at the expense of any meaningful discussion of the public Adams. Major events in American history that Adams either witnessed or played a crucial role in, are given perfunctory treatment. Nagel prefers to keep the focus on Adams himself - his daily life, his routines, what time he woke up, what he did all day, his friendships and relationships.
That said, the book does do a very good job on that, as it provides a much better sense of John Quincy Adams as a person than most other books do. The young Adams' formative years are well-covered, as are the odd personality contrasts that saw him both drawn to and seemingly averse to women, particularly when it came to his courtship with his eventual wife Louisa, to whom he seemed alternately attracted and repelled, romantic and indifferent.
There are also some fun little throwaway anecdotes in the book, such as the time Adams managed to get himself locked out of the White House. And his penchant for swimming, gardening and poetry are well-described. He also appears to have had a completely happy and fulfilling marriage, though several more recent books tell of a much more troubled and turbulent relationship.
It's been well-noted that the book contains no end notes. This is most troubling when Nagel reaches conclusions where you can't check his citations to see for yourself the evidence he's using - for instance, he asserts that Abigail Adams was a stern mother because her brother's wayward ways convinced her to be so, he declares that there was no "corrupt bargain" with Henry Clay, and he outright diagnoses John Quincy Adams with clinical depression - but no specific evidence is cited in conclusions such as these, so you can only take Nagel's word for it.
Ultimately, this is a good personal portrait of Adams, but not a book that tells his story in full. It was good for its time, and there may be some benefit to reading it today in conjunction with a book about the more public Adams. But like those reels of microfilm upon which it is largely based, for all but the most ardent John Quincy Adams fans, this book's time may have passed.
Snark aside, this book today seems to exist as something of a product of its time - a notable work of scholarship in an era when not much was written about John Quincy Adams. It's been far eclipsed, however, by a plethora of more recent works on the man.
In his effort to focus on both the "public life" and "private life" of his subject, Nagel achieves his goal of revealing the "inner Adams," as opposed to focusing primarily on Adams' life in public service. But the inner Adams is explored almost at the expense of any meaningful discussion of the public Adams. Major events in American history that Adams either witnessed or played a crucial role in, are given perfunctory treatment. Nagel prefers to keep the focus on Adams himself - his daily life, his routines, what time he woke up, what he did all day, his friendships and relationships.
That said, the book does do a very good job on that, as it provides a much better sense of John Quincy Adams as a person than most other books do. The young Adams' formative years are well-covered, as are the odd personality contrasts that saw him both drawn to and seemingly averse to women, particularly when it came to his courtship with his eventual wife Louisa, to whom he seemed alternately attracted and repelled, romantic and indifferent.
There are also some fun little throwaway anecdotes in the book, such as the time Adams managed to get himself locked out of the White House. And his penchant for swimming, gardening and poetry are well-described. He also appears to have had a completely happy and fulfilling marriage, though several more recent books tell of a much more troubled and turbulent relationship.
It's been well-noted that the book contains no end notes. This is most troubling when Nagel reaches conclusions where you can't check his citations to see for yourself the evidence he's using - for instance, he asserts that Abigail Adams was a stern mother because her brother's wayward ways convinced her to be so, he declares that there was no "corrupt bargain" with Henry Clay, and he outright diagnoses John Quincy Adams with clinical depression - but no specific evidence is cited in conclusions such as these, so you can only take Nagel's word for it.
Ultimately, this is a good personal portrait of Adams, but not a book that tells his story in full. It was good for its time, and there may be some benefit to reading it today in conjunction with a book about the more public Adams. But like those reels of microfilm upon which it is largely based, for all but the most ardent John Quincy Adams fans, this book's time may have passed.
July 16, 2021
I'm one of those cynics who will first read the poor reviews. If they have merit, then I don't buy. This if my assistant cynic first assures that they are not the work of dolts and/or headcases, which will prompt me to then consider the glowing reviews. If the glowing reviews are not the obvious work of confederates and kinfolk, then I buy.
Alas, an amendment to the method is in order. In reading the poor reviews of Nagel's JQA, I was struck by the complaints that center on its lack of endnotes (despite the fact that a bibliographical essay does appear and it's perfectly acceptable) and the decision not to bog down readers with details about an undeniably undistinguished presidency, boringly Byzantine congressional politics, and whatever else is guaranteed to glaze the eyes. Happily, the editors -scholars all- at Knopf and Harvard decided that this book would be for John Q. Public whom John Q. Adams served over his 60-year career. Huzzah for them. And a raspberry for the critics: I have alerted my assistant cynic to dismiss not only those poor reviews clearly written by dolts and headcases, but those written by stuffed shirts as well.
I purchased this book at a long-gone bookstore on Boylston Street back in 2006. It sat on my shelf for 15 years. Why didn't I read it before July 2021? Because I assumed that it would be bogged down with details that only stuffed shirts would appreciate, or pretend to appreciate. I was, happily, as wrong as many of the poor reviews you see elsewhere on this page. I wanted to see the heart of the man behind perhaps the greatest resume of any American, past or present. And I did. John Quincy Adams --crank, critic, Christian, and combatant reaches off the page to grasp your hand much like he did that morning his grandson refused to go to the schoolhouse. Grandfather Adams grasped that hand and didn't let go until the boy was seated in class and ready to learn.
Nagel does the same. And this fast-moving 419 pages is a testimony to his skill and talent as a biographer.
Alas, an amendment to the method is in order. In reading the poor reviews of Nagel's JQA, I was struck by the complaints that center on its lack of endnotes (despite the fact that a bibliographical essay does appear and it's perfectly acceptable) and the decision not to bog down readers with details about an undeniably undistinguished presidency, boringly Byzantine congressional politics, and whatever else is guaranteed to glaze the eyes. Happily, the editors -scholars all- at Knopf and Harvard decided that this book would be for John Q. Public whom John Q. Adams served over his 60-year career. Huzzah for them. And a raspberry for the critics: I have alerted my assistant cynic to dismiss not only those poor reviews clearly written by dolts and headcases, but those written by stuffed shirts as well.
I purchased this book at a long-gone bookstore on Boylston Street back in 2006. It sat on my shelf for 15 years. Why didn't I read it before July 2021? Because I assumed that it would be bogged down with details that only stuffed shirts would appreciate, or pretend to appreciate. I was, happily, as wrong as many of the poor reviews you see elsewhere on this page. I wanted to see the heart of the man behind perhaps the greatest resume of any American, past or present. And I did. John Quincy Adams --crank, critic, Christian, and combatant reaches off the page to grasp your hand much like he did that morning his grandson refused to go to the schoolhouse. Grandfather Adams grasped that hand and didn't let go until the boy was seated in class and ready to learn.
Nagel does the same. And this fast-moving 419 pages is a testimony to his skill and talent as a biographer.
December 26, 2011
Excellent biography based on JQA's diaries (of nearly seventy years), focused more on his private than public life. Such an amazing man-- well traveled by his teen years, brilliant diplomat, Harvard graduate (2nd in his class), struggled with depression, perfectionism and trying to meet the high standards of his parents. Would have preferred to be a man of letters (was a professor of Oratory at Harvard) and had a passion for science and technology. He was a lawyer, U.S. Senator, Secretary of State and President for one term. He was the prime mover behind the Monroe Doctrine which ended the War of 1812, and was an opponent of slavery, defender of slaves on the Amistad. I felt that Nagel made Abigail Adams out to be an obnoxious nag. He was a remarkable individual.
January 8, 2017
Reading this book was a pleasant surprise: I had anticipated another somewhat academic, scholarly biography of JQA. Instead, Nagel was scrupulous in trying to balance the personal with the professional Adams. The book does not get bogged down in Adams' many foreign policy accomplishments. That in and of itself is a feat as Adams was a great statesman in the diplomatic realm: Minister (today he would be called an Ambassador) to The Netherlands, Minister to Germany, Minister to Russia, Minister to Great Britain, part of the peace commission to end the War of 1812, U.S. Secretary of State. And then he was President!
One of Nagel's strengths here is that he writes at length of the extremely high expectations that Adams' parents, John and Abigail, had of him from the moment he was born, and how these expectations weighed him down his entire life. Basically, both parents told him that if he did not attain the pinnacle of being President or a position almost as important, he would be considered a failure. Abigail Adams especially comes across here as a domineering, meddling, troublesome mother who micromanages his life. So much so that Adams does not even attend her funeral.
Nagel also writes of Adams' difficult relationship with his wife, Louisa, and with that of his children, in particular the failure of his first two sons to amount to anything. Indeed, both die at early ages due to alcoholism. Nagel makes extensive use of Adams' voluminous diary and correspondence, so in many instances we read what Adams thought and wrote. While only one chapter is devoted to his presidency, given the overwhelming success that Adams had in his many other important positions, this seems reasonable - especially when one considers just how little Adams accomplished during his four years in the White House.
At times, I thought Nagel could have delved further into some matters. The "Corrupt Bargain" between Adams and Henry Clay in 1825, leading to Adams' selection as President by the House of Representatives, is given short shift. Nagel writes that the offer to make Clay Secretary of State was made only after Clay gave his delegates to Adams. I'm not so sure about this. At any rate, Nagel should have examined the situation more as it had such a disastrous impact on Adams' presidency.
Nagel also does not elaborate on why Adams never received a job offer from Thomas Jefferson. Additionally, he does not write about Adams' relationships with James Madison and James Monroe. I would have liked to have known more about them. Nagel does cover Adams' House career quite well, and details his physical decline in his final years.
Grade: B+
One of Nagel's strengths here is that he writes at length of the extremely high expectations that Adams' parents, John and Abigail, had of him from the moment he was born, and how these expectations weighed him down his entire life. Basically, both parents told him that if he did not attain the pinnacle of being President or a position almost as important, he would be considered a failure. Abigail Adams especially comes across here as a domineering, meddling, troublesome mother who micromanages his life. So much so that Adams does not even attend her funeral.
Nagel also writes of Adams' difficult relationship with his wife, Louisa, and with that of his children, in particular the failure of his first two sons to amount to anything. Indeed, both die at early ages due to alcoholism. Nagel makes extensive use of Adams' voluminous diary and correspondence, so in many instances we read what Adams thought and wrote. While only one chapter is devoted to his presidency, given the overwhelming success that Adams had in his many other important positions, this seems reasonable - especially when one considers just how little Adams accomplished during his four years in the White House.
At times, I thought Nagel could have delved further into some matters. The "Corrupt Bargain" between Adams and Henry Clay in 1825, leading to Adams' selection as President by the House of Representatives, is given short shift. Nagel writes that the offer to make Clay Secretary of State was made only after Clay gave his delegates to Adams. I'm not so sure about this. At any rate, Nagel should have examined the situation more as it had such a disastrous impact on Adams' presidency.
Nagel also does not elaborate on why Adams never received a job offer from Thomas Jefferson. Additionally, he does not write about Adams' relationships with James Madison and James Monroe. I would have liked to have known more about them. Nagel does cover Adams' House career quite well, and details his physical decline in his final years.
Grade: B+
September 24, 2020
I gotta say, I really didn't know what to expect with this biography of the Sixth President. On the one hand, I'd heard he was cold, humourless and unbearably arrogant. On the other, I'd heard it was generally agreed he was the smartest of all the Presidents. And then there's the facts of his life that appear in McCullough's bio of his father, or in bios of Madison and Monroe - in whose administrations he served.
And the verdict? Yes. Cold, humourless, arrogant - all probably because of the fact that he was not only much more intelligent than those around him, or because he was educated among the smartest Europeans of his age at the most powerful courts of power - but probably most of all because all these incredibly smart people recognized his brilliance from an early age - something Americans did not appreciate until well after his death.
Thus, the story Nagel tells is a fascinating one - and regardless of what one thinks of Adams' policies or his presidency (which must be considered a failure) - one has to marvel at the energy, determination and sheer will of the subject. And while every biographer (of course) wishes to put the finest gloss on his subject, Nagel is, I think, fairly even handed - helped in no small part by his access to the private journals and diaries of Adams.
This is a really great biography. It was elucidating, educational, and really well-written. Not only am I glad I read it, I look forward to reading other works by Nagel.
And the verdict? Yes. Cold, humourless, arrogant - all probably because of the fact that he was not only much more intelligent than those around him, or because he was educated among the smartest Europeans of his age at the most powerful courts of power - but probably most of all because all these incredibly smart people recognized his brilliance from an early age - something Americans did not appreciate until well after his death.
Thus, the story Nagel tells is a fascinating one - and regardless of what one thinks of Adams' policies or his presidency (which must be considered a failure) - one has to marvel at the energy, determination and sheer will of the subject. And while every biographer (of course) wishes to put the finest gloss on his subject, Nagel is, I think, fairly even handed - helped in no small part by his access to the private journals and diaries of Adams.
This is a really great biography. It was elucidating, educational, and really well-written. Not only am I glad I read it, I look forward to reading other works by Nagel.
November 23, 2015
Paul C. Nagel's John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, A Private Life falls short of the expectations of what I have for a book from the Harvard University Press. The work is thoroughly researched and the author is a legitimate academic expert in the field. The problem lies with Nagel's decision to present a record of how John Quincy Adams viewed the events in his life rather than an analysis of his role in American history. By focussing on Adam's psychological make-up, Nagel is able to make a compelling case that John Quincy Adams was totally unfit for the highest office in the land. What Nagel neglects to do is give the reader any indication what the requirements of the presidency were at the time Adams held the position.
Nagel always tells you how Adams felt about what was happening but he makes no effort to create the context for the reader. Nagel does not introduce the players that Adams worked for and against. The reader needs to know from previous reading what the strategies and objectives of Monroe, Madison, Van Buren and Jackson at the various occasions when Adams was confronted by them. Nagel explains neither the values of the other politicians nor their legislative agendas. He simply describes how Adams felt about the their actions.
One suspects that part of the problem is with Adams himself who was guided only by the very high esteem in which he regarded himself and not by any short or long term program. Adams in fact managed to get elected president without revealing to any of his supporters what he intended to do once in office. As it turned out his legislative agenda was high-minded by loopy in the extreme. His proposal to create a National Astronomical Observatory was the one that was most jeered, but the others were equally far removed from the concerns of the common man. His presidency failed irretrievably within weeks of his inauguration and none of his lofty ideas came to fruition.
Adams proved to be such a horrible president that Nagel can only bring himself to write a single chapter about it. In the opening paragraph, Nagel explains: "It may confound some readers that a biography of any American president should devote only a single chapter to his administration. Nevertheless, such brevity seems appropriate for John Quincy Adams. His four years in the White House were misery for him and for his wife. ... His administration was a hapless failure and best forgotten."
After his president ended John Quincy Adams did much to redeem himself. He returned to Congress where he vigorously defended the anti-slavery cause. He was also one of the lawyers who defended the slaves who mutinied on the Amistad. We also have to Adams to thank for the Smithsonian Museum as it was his diligence in Congress that prevented the funds in the bequest from being diverted for other purposes. Adams was certainly principled and right-minded. His problem was simply that he lacked the vision and leadership qualities required for the Presidency.
Paul C. Nagel's John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, A Private Life provides an excellent tale of the life of a profound second-rater. Unfortunately, he manages to do so without telling the reader anything about either the politics or the society that John Quincy Adams lived it. This book is for those who already know the era and simply wish to know the man. Do not bother with this book unless you feel you already possess a strong knowledge American history during the period between the War of Independence and the Civil War.
Nagel always tells you how Adams felt about what was happening but he makes no effort to create the context for the reader. Nagel does not introduce the players that Adams worked for and against. The reader needs to know from previous reading what the strategies and objectives of Monroe, Madison, Van Buren and Jackson at the various occasions when Adams was confronted by them. Nagel explains neither the values of the other politicians nor their legislative agendas. He simply describes how Adams felt about the their actions.
One suspects that part of the problem is with Adams himself who was guided only by the very high esteem in which he regarded himself and not by any short or long term program. Adams in fact managed to get elected president without revealing to any of his supporters what he intended to do once in office. As it turned out his legislative agenda was high-minded by loopy in the extreme. His proposal to create a National Astronomical Observatory was the one that was most jeered, but the others were equally far removed from the concerns of the common man. His presidency failed irretrievably within weeks of his inauguration and none of his lofty ideas came to fruition.
Adams proved to be such a horrible president that Nagel can only bring himself to write a single chapter about it. In the opening paragraph, Nagel explains: "It may confound some readers that a biography of any American president should devote only a single chapter to his administration. Nevertheless, such brevity seems appropriate for John Quincy Adams. His four years in the White House were misery for him and for his wife. ... His administration was a hapless failure and best forgotten."
After his president ended John Quincy Adams did much to redeem himself. He returned to Congress where he vigorously defended the anti-slavery cause. He was also one of the lawyers who defended the slaves who mutinied on the Amistad. We also have to Adams to thank for the Smithsonian Museum as it was his diligence in Congress that prevented the funds in the bequest from being diverted for other purposes. Adams was certainly principled and right-minded. His problem was simply that he lacked the vision and leadership qualities required for the Presidency.
Paul C. Nagel's John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, A Private Life provides an excellent tale of the life of a profound second-rater. Unfortunately, he manages to do so without telling the reader anything about either the politics or the society that John Quincy Adams lived it. This book is for those who already know the era and simply wish to know the man. Do not bother with this book unless you feel you already possess a strong knowledge American history during the period between the War of Independence and the Civil War.
February 12, 2011
I was familiar with the Adams Family having read several books on JQA's famous parents. I was interested in learning what type of man JQA was in his private life as well as his professional career. This book did not disappoint in terms of bringing out JQA's genius, personality, talents and struggles. He unquestionably blessed the United States of America with his diplomatic skills with various important treaties and his life-long service. All the while struggling with bouts crippling depression.
It was apparent to me that author, Paul C. Nagel had an extreme dislike for JQA's mother, Abigail. In fact, I found it quite distracting that every time her name was mentioned, the author had a negative adjective or impression about her. While I agree that she was a formidable woman, I don't think we can judge her by our standards today. For example, Mr. Nagel thought her to be an inappropriately over-bearing mother to JQA. While I agree that she had perhaps too much to say about her son's life, I keep in mind the terrible consequences of having a grown child unable to have a profession to keep him and his family in 18th & 19th century. There was no welfare or unemployment back then. The implications were huge for ruin not only for a grown child of a family, but also for the entire extended family. Also, I personally think she was right about her counsel to her son about the importance of choosing a wife that would be a valuable partner through life. Even today, there is not many decisions that will more directly affect the quality of life than one's chosen spouse.
I was also disappointed at the end of the book when the author described JQA's grandson, George's experience of opening his coffin to view his corpse (after being moved from the family vault to the inside of the Adams Temple). Sharing what George saw of his grandfather's decomposing corpse bothered me. I thought it was completely disrespectful and unnecessary to finish JQA's life story with that image.
It was apparent to me that author, Paul C. Nagel had an extreme dislike for JQA's mother, Abigail. In fact, I found it quite distracting that every time her name was mentioned, the author had a negative adjective or impression about her. While I agree that she was a formidable woman, I don't think we can judge her by our standards today. For example, Mr. Nagel thought her to be an inappropriately over-bearing mother to JQA. While I agree that she had perhaps too much to say about her son's life, I keep in mind the terrible consequences of having a grown child unable to have a profession to keep him and his family in 18th & 19th century. There was no welfare or unemployment back then. The implications were huge for ruin not only for a grown child of a family, but also for the entire extended family. Also, I personally think she was right about her counsel to her son about the importance of choosing a wife that would be a valuable partner through life. Even today, there is not many decisions that will more directly affect the quality of life than one's chosen spouse.
I was also disappointed at the end of the book when the author described JQA's grandson, George's experience of opening his coffin to view his corpse (after being moved from the family vault to the inside of the Adams Temple). Sharing what George saw of his grandfather's decomposing corpse bothered me. I thought it was completely disrespectful and unnecessary to finish JQA's life story with that image.
April 21, 2011
This is one of those rare and wonderful biographies of a public figure that gives you deep insight into the person behind the historical personage. I had always bought into the commonly held idea that JQA was a curmudgeon who didn't live up to his father's heroic example. I came away from this book appreciating both his accomplishments and the emotional difficulties he faced as he lived a life where the best of the 18th and early 19th century cultural values warred within him. The political history is covered but in the context of what it meant to Adams, which is where I like it to be.
I also found it fascinating the extent to which so many of the ideas that he espoused which got him labeled "crank" by his own generation came to fruition in the 20th century--everything from his belief that adopting the metric system world wide would simplify trade to his conviction that the role of the Federal government should include financing interstate roads and scientific research.
My only dissappointment with this volume, which I'm certain was due to the publisher not the author, was that nothing is footnoted. This makes it impossible to learn where the new and at times surprising facts come from and to get a sense of when the author is drawing on primary sources and when he is relying on the research of others.
Highly recommended to anyone interested in early 19th century life and to fans of David McCullough's presidential biographies.
I also found it fascinating the extent to which so many of the ideas that he espoused which got him labeled "crank" by his own generation came to fruition in the 20th century--everything from his belief that adopting the metric system world wide would simplify trade to his conviction that the role of the Federal government should include financing interstate roads and scientific research.
My only dissappointment with this volume, which I'm certain was due to the publisher not the author, was that nothing is footnoted. This makes it impossible to learn where the new and at times surprising facts come from and to get a sense of when the author is drawing on primary sources and when he is relying on the research of others.
Highly recommended to anyone interested in early 19th century life and to fans of David McCullough's presidential biographies.
August 26, 2012
I enjoyed this. It’s a very personal biography of Adams, based largely on his diaries. It contains only as much historical background as is absolutely necessary to make his story intelligible.
The author is fond of Adams and unabashedly defends his often maligned character. He doesn’t hesitate to describe Adams’s weaknesses, though, and only spends a single chapter on his miserable presidency, calling it a "hapless failure and best forgotten".
The book includes a source list, but it doesn’t have any embedded citations. This makes me feel less confident in the accuracy of the work, although it’s not as if I ever track down and verify those citations when they are present in other books.
The author is fond of Adams and unabashedly defends his often maligned character. He doesn’t hesitate to describe Adams’s weaknesses, though, and only spends a single chapter on his miserable presidency, calling it a "hapless failure and best forgotten".
The book includes a source list, but it doesn’t have any embedded citations. This makes me feel less confident in the accuracy of the work, although it’s not as if I ever track down and verify those citations when they are present in other books.
July 9, 2022
The title was definitely a lie, because for his presidency, his time as Secretary of State, and his time as a diplomat, the author provides little to none of the president’s policy or what he did in his public life. Instead he constantly quotes from Adams’ diaries to the point where it adds confusion and detracts from the book. Less of the president’s study habits and more of his politics would be make for a better book.
September 20, 2021
He was doing the self-loathing, cranky old bald man bit way before Larry David. He came from a family of booze hounds and he hounded after booze too but not to the point of killing him. He got boils on top his head once. He didn't like slavery and his presidency was so unimpressive it was only one chapter of the book. My only disappointment - it doesn't mention his marriage to Tom Brennan (inside joke- look it up!)
February 2, 2019
I did it!! Finally finished this one!!
The first president with clinical depression (although undiagnosed they had no idea in those times) and I'd jump to say ADHD. He could never get anywhere on time, missed the vote for the Louisiana Purchase. He was very disorganized and unable to generally get things done, studying, reading, writing. I didint realize he was a congressman after his presidency. His term in office was a stalemate due to a congress who wanted nothing to do with his highfalooting european ideas like federalizing highways and aqueducts. His time in Congress was by far more fruitful. Arguing against the Mexican war and against slavery. He was ahead of his time and therefore couldnt get all he wanted done.
I cant say I enjoyed reading this one but im glad to be onto the next! Jackson it is!
The first president with clinical depression (although undiagnosed they had no idea in those times) and I'd jump to say ADHD. He could never get anywhere on time, missed the vote for the Louisiana Purchase. He was very disorganized and unable to generally get things done, studying, reading, writing. I didint realize he was a congressman after his presidency. His term in office was a stalemate due to a congress who wanted nothing to do with his highfalooting european ideas like federalizing highways and aqueducts. His time in Congress was by far more fruitful. Arguing against the Mexican war and against slavery. He was ahead of his time and therefore couldnt get all he wanted done.
I cant say I enjoyed reading this one but im glad to be onto the next! Jackson it is!
September 18, 2013
http://bestpresidentialbios.com/2013/...
“John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, A Private Life” by Paul Nagel was published in 1997 and represents the first significant biography of JQA following Marie Hecht’s 1972 biography. Nagel’s biography was also the first to draw upon his complete (and voluminous) diary. Nagel, who died in 2011, was an author and historian, and spent time as a professor at the University of Georgia and University of Kentucky.
Nagel’s “John Quincy Adams” is unique among the three dozen presidential biographies I’ve read thus far as it was principally written from the perspective of John Quincy himself. Using Adams’s diary as inspiration (and invaluable eyewitness testimony), Nagel paints a portrait which shows Adams as a brilliant, complex, strong-willed, endlessly self-critical and probably clinically depressed individual. The result of this work is a deeply insightful understanding of a fascinating individual whose talents were (ironically enough) least on display during his four years as president.
A minor issue with this unique perspective is that Nagel’s biography is almost a re-telling (and self-critique) of Adams’s life through the subject’s own eyes. As a result, historical events which did not concern Adams or receive much of his focus could easily be lost. To Nagel’s credit, he bridges the occasional gaps in JQA’s diary with a historian’s perspective of important moments in American history, never allowing the reader to wander astray. Nonetheless, Nagel remains more a storyteller than analyst, leaving final judgement of JQA’s successes and failure to the reader.
Nagel’s biography is organized into five sections, each containing three chapters, and runs strictly chronologically. As a result – and owing to his straightforward writing style – the book is very easy to read and to understand (although the content often tends to be dense).
A few readers have noted Nagel’s tendency to allow the biography to wander into detail that seems irrelevant or, at best, tangential to the main thrust of Adams’s life. While a fair criticism, this seems an inherent risk in the author’s approach. After all, we have the opportunity to spend a virtual lifetime viewing the world through John Quincy’s eyes, so it is not surprising we are witness to a few moments that could be considered dull, trivial or unnecessary.
Among the more interesting revelations in Nagel’s biography is the description of John Quincy’s mother, Abigail Adams. In contrast to the more delicate treatment she receives in other biographies (including some focused on the second president), she is described in this biography as an incessantly domineering and overbearing mother. This does not seem to be merely the author’s opinion, but, instead, the view of John Quincy who altogether failed to attend her funeral, citing “work obligations.”
On a critical note, the book is one of the only presidential biographies I’ve read which is not exhaustively footnoted (indeed, there are no footnotes at all). Given the publisher’s emphasis that the book is based on one of the first-ever complete readings of Adams’s entire diary, it is easy to surmise where the author sourced most of his material. Nonetheless, the omission seems glaring.
Overall, however, “John Quincy Adams” proves a worthwhile read and a valuable source of new insight into JQA’s personality. While this biography is not quite suitable as the “only” biography an interested fan of John Quincy Adams’s should rely on, it makes an invaluable companion to other good biographies of JQA. Written partially in the style of a Joseph Ellis character analysis and partially as a narrative history, Nagel’s biography was a fun, interesting and deeply insightful read.
Overall Rating: 4 stars
“John Quincy Adams: A Public Life, A Private Life” by Paul Nagel was published in 1997 and represents the first significant biography of JQA following Marie Hecht’s 1972 biography. Nagel’s biography was also the first to draw upon his complete (and voluminous) diary. Nagel, who died in 2011, was an author and historian, and spent time as a professor at the University of Georgia and University of Kentucky.
Nagel’s “John Quincy Adams” is unique among the three dozen presidential biographies I’ve read thus far as it was principally written from the perspective of John Quincy himself. Using Adams’s diary as inspiration (and invaluable eyewitness testimony), Nagel paints a portrait which shows Adams as a brilliant, complex, strong-willed, endlessly self-critical and probably clinically depressed individual. The result of this work is a deeply insightful understanding of a fascinating individual whose talents were (ironically enough) least on display during his four years as president.
A minor issue with this unique perspective is that Nagel’s biography is almost a re-telling (and self-critique) of Adams’s life through the subject’s own eyes. As a result, historical events which did not concern Adams or receive much of his focus could easily be lost. To Nagel’s credit, he bridges the occasional gaps in JQA’s diary with a historian’s perspective of important moments in American history, never allowing the reader to wander astray. Nonetheless, Nagel remains more a storyteller than analyst, leaving final judgement of JQA’s successes and failure to the reader.
Nagel’s biography is organized into five sections, each containing three chapters, and runs strictly chronologically. As a result – and owing to his straightforward writing style – the book is very easy to read and to understand (although the content often tends to be dense).
A few readers have noted Nagel’s tendency to allow the biography to wander into detail that seems irrelevant or, at best, tangential to the main thrust of Adams’s life. While a fair criticism, this seems an inherent risk in the author’s approach. After all, we have the opportunity to spend a virtual lifetime viewing the world through John Quincy’s eyes, so it is not surprising we are witness to a few moments that could be considered dull, trivial or unnecessary.
Among the more interesting revelations in Nagel’s biography is the description of John Quincy’s mother, Abigail Adams. In contrast to the more delicate treatment she receives in other biographies (including some focused on the second president), she is described in this biography as an incessantly domineering and overbearing mother. This does not seem to be merely the author’s opinion, but, instead, the view of John Quincy who altogether failed to attend her funeral, citing “work obligations.”
On a critical note, the book is one of the only presidential biographies I’ve read which is not exhaustively footnoted (indeed, there are no footnotes at all). Given the publisher’s emphasis that the book is based on one of the first-ever complete readings of Adams’s entire diary, it is easy to surmise where the author sourced most of his material. Nonetheless, the omission seems glaring.
Overall, however, “John Quincy Adams” proves a worthwhile read and a valuable source of new insight into JQA’s personality. While this biography is not quite suitable as the “only” biography an interested fan of John Quincy Adams’s should rely on, it makes an invaluable companion to other good biographies of JQA. Written partially in the style of a Joseph Ellis character analysis and partially as a narrative history, Nagel’s biography was a fun, interesting and deeply insightful read.
Overall Rating: 4 stars
May 8, 2025
this would more likely be a 3.5. kind of a slog. felt like a prequel for the jackson presidency ❤️🔥❤️🔥
September 30, 2014
A good biography must be more than a summary of dates and events; the best would not only relate an individual's achievements, but also his motivating influences and internal conflicts. Because John Quincy Adams kept a very detailed, and intimate, diary for 70 years of his life, the author had a wealth of information upon which to draw, the result being a dynamic exploration of the sixth president.
Well-traveled from a young age and educated in European schools, Adams found it difficult to later settle into Harvard life and the tedium of a law practice. His relationship with politics could be termed one of reluctant compulsion - consistently disavowing any interest in public service, he nevertheless pursued it relentlessly, and with great skill. His time as a US representative to Russia and England, two terms as Monroe's secretary of state, and a long stint in the House of Representatives during his later years were productive and earned him great respect. His ineffective presidency seems like a brief dip in an otherwise successful career.
Personally, he was plagued with issues of self-esteem, never believing that his efforts were appreciated by the public, or that he even merited respect. Despite going through periods in which he pared down his slumber to four hours a night, he was never satisfied with his level of productivity, and frequently berated himself for wasting time. His greatest desire was to contribute in the areas of literature or science, a dream not realized despite his best efforts. He suffered bouts of crippling depression, but managed to elude the familial curse of alcoholism, which claimed both of his brothers and two of his sons.
His writings are inspiring - though he was never fully satisfied with his achievements, his quest for self-improvement, his driving ambition to have a positive impact on future generations, and the lengths to which he would go in an effort to meet his own expectations were impressive.
This book captures the full essence of the man, his public persona and his private struggles. Excellent, absorbing read.
Well-traveled from a young age and educated in European schools, Adams found it difficult to later settle into Harvard life and the tedium of a law practice. His relationship with politics could be termed one of reluctant compulsion - consistently disavowing any interest in public service, he nevertheless pursued it relentlessly, and with great skill. His time as a US representative to Russia and England, two terms as Monroe's secretary of state, and a long stint in the House of Representatives during his later years were productive and earned him great respect. His ineffective presidency seems like a brief dip in an otherwise successful career.
Personally, he was plagued with issues of self-esteem, never believing that his efforts were appreciated by the public, or that he even merited respect. Despite going through periods in which he pared down his slumber to four hours a night, he was never satisfied with his level of productivity, and frequently berated himself for wasting time. His greatest desire was to contribute in the areas of literature or science, a dream not realized despite his best efforts. He suffered bouts of crippling depression, but managed to elude the familial curse of alcoholism, which claimed both of his brothers and two of his sons.
His writings are inspiring - though he was never fully satisfied with his achievements, his quest for self-improvement, his driving ambition to have a positive impact on future generations, and the lengths to which he would go in an effort to meet his own expectations were impressive.
This book captures the full essence of the man, his public persona and his private struggles. Excellent, absorbing read.
December 22, 2015
I consider a great biography one that sketches out the subject's psyche to such an extent that the reader can project how he or she would react in another situation AND a work which gives the reader a detailed texture for his or her time.
In this case, relying heavily on John Quincy Adams's detail and Decades-Long journal, the author has his hands full with his subject's energetic and irascible temperament as it escapes from his pen. As a reader, I could identify with the personality of John Quincy Adams and admire the way in which he continued to engage the disappointing world despite his STRONG preference for a light in the written word. But, Adams's internal battles take up so much attention that we don't get to know much the outer world he inhabited from the time he was his father's secretary during the revolution to the beginning rumblings that led to the Civil War. We know this treaty or that bill, but we don't we experience what life felt like in that era.
In this case, relying heavily on John Quincy Adams's detail and Decades-Long journal, the author has his hands full with his subject's energetic and irascible temperament as it escapes from his pen. As a reader, I could identify with the personality of John Quincy Adams and admire the way in which he continued to engage the disappointing world despite his STRONG preference for a light in the written word. But, Adams's internal battles take up so much attention that we don't get to know much the outer world he inhabited from the time he was his father's secretary during the revolution to the beginning rumblings that led to the Civil War. We know this treaty or that bill, but we don't we experience what life felt like in that era.
September 20, 2016
Nagel takes the abundant writings of John Quincy Adams and pieces together the troubled yet inspirational life of the president best known for his public service before and after his uneventful time in the Executive Mansion. I got to know a very different Abigail Adams, and the first President Adams, too, than the loving couple I read of in McCullough's John Adams. Nagel revealed the overbearing parents, and how their influence shaped their son's lifelong low opinion of himself. I was, as the author expected, surprised by the short chapter on Adams' presidency, but it was presented in proportion to its importance in the heart, mind, and story of the subject of this worthy biography.
September 18, 2019
I enjoyed this book but thought it had a bit of a narrow scope. In the last chapter, Nagel finally begins to describe Louisa Adams in more detail. Information that would have been interesting to have throughout the book. The book clearly is an effort to bring JQAs lengthy and detailed journal to life, and in this it succeeds. However, I think mixing this personal reflection with a broader scope could have been helpful. I think this is perhaps a good companion book to other biographies of JQA. Works that focus on other sources would be enriched by the perspective within this book.
The first odd part of this book I found odd was the writers very apparent dislike of Abigail Adams. At first I thought he was perhaps expounding the dislike from JQA, but he never mentions JQA speaking ill of his mother. Nagel seems to read between the lines of their relationship to a point that I think may boarder of projection. I am interested to read other biographies and see if Nagel is vindicated in his portrayal of Abigail and their relationship.
I find myself very sympathetic with JQA. He was a prodigy, a brilliant thinking, and a (sometimes) successful politician who constantly chides himself for wasting time and not living up to potential. Clearly, he set goals so lofty that no mere mortal could achieve them. Yet, I see so much of myself in his chiding. How many nights I too think if hours wasted that should have been better spent. I hope to take this as a warning to been more contented with my limitations but also with my successes. If JQA could see his accomplishments for what they were I think he would have been a happier man.
I also find it odd how Nagel downplays JQAs contributions on the subject of slavery. Perhaps the for most anti-slavery politician of the time, Nagel describes Adams as only entering the fray to attack his old opponents and gain revenge. I have trouble accepting that narrative, based on other writings and the fact that JQAs righteous ardour denouncing the evils of slarey seems genuine. Perhaps this need for revenge was a factor, but I disagree that it was JQAs primary motivator.
All in all, a good biography that I would recommend. Though, I may want to read another on JQA to round out my knowledge.
The first odd part of this book I found odd was the writers very apparent dislike of Abigail Adams. At first I thought he was perhaps expounding the dislike from JQA, but he never mentions JQA speaking ill of his mother. Nagel seems to read between the lines of their relationship to a point that I think may boarder of projection. I am interested to read other biographies and see if Nagel is vindicated in his portrayal of Abigail and their relationship.
I find myself very sympathetic with JQA. He was a prodigy, a brilliant thinking, and a (sometimes) successful politician who constantly chides himself for wasting time and not living up to potential. Clearly, he set goals so lofty that no mere mortal could achieve them. Yet, I see so much of myself in his chiding. How many nights I too think if hours wasted that should have been better spent. I hope to take this as a warning to been more contented with my limitations but also with my successes. If JQA could see his accomplishments for what they were I think he would have been a happier man.
I also find it odd how Nagel downplays JQAs contributions on the subject of slavery. Perhaps the for most anti-slavery politician of the time, Nagel describes Adams as only entering the fray to attack his old opponents and gain revenge. I have trouble accepting that narrative, based on other writings and the fact that JQAs righteous ardour denouncing the evils of slarey seems genuine. Perhaps this need for revenge was a factor, but I disagree that it was JQAs primary motivator.
All in all, a good biography that I would recommend. Though, I may want to read another on JQA to round out my knowledge.
July 11, 2019
Paul Nagel’s third and final treatment of the Adams’ family political history was published in 1997. To some extent it was an enjoyable read, considering it was able to deliver an interesting and lively portrayal of JQA as a private individual while also describing his public achievements. His time spent in Western and Eastern Europe, both privately and later as a diplomatic emissary to several different countries, was well documented and awe-inspiring. His opposition to slavery and the gag rule during his tenure as a member of congress shed light upon his moral and social beliefs.
Not only did he play a significant role in negotiating a (second) peace agreement with the British government, negotiating a trade agreement with Prussia, and serving as the Minister to Russia: he did so during the same time in his life in which he considered a literary career as a translator of books. In fact, his passion for languages and commitment to mastering them, was one of the most impressive things I discovered about JQA.
Unfortunately, I was quite discontent with the author choosing to dedicate only one chapter to JQAs Presidency. Just because the author claims that his four years in office were unspectacular and not particularly transformational for the country, does not mean I appreciate the editorial decision. While the period before his tenure as the secretary of state was covered in a reasonable amount of detail, I found myself skim reading some of the chapters regarding the post-Presidency. I just wasn’t interested in how many times he considered writing a biography about the elder John Adams, nor about every single place he gave a speech at. In my opinion, the author should have either used this space to write about the Presidency in at least two chapters or he could have shortened the book.
Overall, Nagel’s scholarship regarding the Adams’ family history is commendable. The book serves as a great scholarly resource (albeit not sufficiently so regarding his time in the White House) while at the same time giving a compelling portrait of JQA as a public and a private man.
Not only did he play a significant role in negotiating a (second) peace agreement with the British government, negotiating a trade agreement with Prussia, and serving as the Minister to Russia: he did so during the same time in his life in which he considered a literary career as a translator of books. In fact, his passion for languages and commitment to mastering them, was one of the most impressive things I discovered about JQA.
Unfortunately, I was quite discontent with the author choosing to dedicate only one chapter to JQAs Presidency. Just because the author claims that his four years in office were unspectacular and not particularly transformational for the country, does not mean I appreciate the editorial decision. While the period before his tenure as the secretary of state was covered in a reasonable amount of detail, I found myself skim reading some of the chapters regarding the post-Presidency. I just wasn’t interested in how many times he considered writing a biography about the elder John Adams, nor about every single place he gave a speech at. In my opinion, the author should have either used this space to write about the Presidency in at least two chapters or he could have shortened the book.
Overall, Nagel’s scholarship regarding the Adams’ family history is commendable. The book serves as a great scholarly resource (albeit not sufficiently so regarding his time in the White House) while at the same time giving a compelling portrait of JQA as a public and a private man.
August 7, 2017
John Quincy Adams lived such an interesting life, from his childhood on up to his old age, even to the moment of his death. The years of 1767-1848 were such a fascinating time for American history, from the end of the colonial era to the American Revolution, to the War of 1812, through the rumblings that led to the Civil War. He lived through the American Industrial Revolution, going from wind power to steam, from horses to trains, from painting to early photography.
And JQA lived all over the world, first during his childhood accompanying his father to the courts of France, of Holland, and the UK, and then in his own right, as a diplomat serving in Holland, the UK, Germany (Prussia), and Russia.
This book makes a brief joke about the fact that probably no other president's biography devotes only a single chapter to their actual presidency, but that's all that JQA's really needed.
And then there is his singular post-presidency life as a member of the House of Representatives, and his work on the defense in the Amistad case.
And yet, with such a fascinating and full life, I'd expect a better book. While the style of this one was fairly readable, it definitely lacked the polish and finesse that a better writer would have provided. The author often went on for long periods of time about pointless tangents and uninteresting subjects, while glossing over or completely skipping major events in the world and in Adams' life. With the life JQA led, this book should have been fascinating; instead it was fairly mediocre.
There was also a complete lack of footnotes, and only a brief list of sources. I know the author was working mostly off of JQA's diaries, but still, I expect way more in the way of citation, especially for a modern book.
And I doubt I would have finished this book anywhere near as quickly as I did but for the fact that I had two long train rides in two days.
Anyway, I debated between 3 stars and 2, and wish again that I could give half stars, because I think this one deserves 2.5.
And JQA lived all over the world, first during his childhood accompanying his father to the courts of France, of Holland, and the UK, and then in his own right, as a diplomat serving in Holland, the UK, Germany (Prussia), and Russia.
This book makes a brief joke about the fact that probably no other president's biography devotes only a single chapter to their actual presidency, but that's all that JQA's really needed.
And then there is his singular post-presidency life as a member of the House of Representatives, and his work on the defense in the Amistad case.
And yet, with such a fascinating and full life, I'd expect a better book. While the style of this one was fairly readable, it definitely lacked the polish and finesse that a better writer would have provided. The author often went on for long periods of time about pointless tangents and uninteresting subjects, while glossing over or completely skipping major events in the world and in Adams' life. With the life JQA led, this book should have been fascinating; instead it was fairly mediocre.
There was also a complete lack of footnotes, and only a brief list of sources. I know the author was working mostly off of JQA's diaries, but still, I expect way more in the way of citation, especially for a modern book.
And I doubt I would have finished this book anywhere near as quickly as I did but for the fact that I had two long train rides in two days.
Anyway, I debated between 3 stars and 2, and wish again that I could give half stars, because I think this one deserves 2.5.
November 27, 2013
There is a phrase in the United States that asks, "How good does one have to be in order to bad in the NBA?" The answer to this question is "pretty damn awesome!" To be bad in the NBA, the MLB, or the NFL one has to be an incredible ball player. Only by being great at the lower levels can one find the opportunity to be bad as a professional.
I think you can take this same view with American statesmen and the presidency. The American presidency is the highest office that any American can possibly obtain. If an American becomes the President he (or, someday, she) has their picture in the back of every U.S. history textbook, their names are added to the president rap, and presidential history buffs such as myself make it a point to learn interesting details about their lives. In order to become president the statesmen have to use the electoral process to convince the nation that they should be the leader. Even presidents who achieve the presidency through vice presidential succession do so because to be elected vice president is to be elected stand-by leader[1]. Just doing that is amazing.
In some ways my analogy fails because I would not say the presidency was the professional level but rather the presidency, Congress, state governors, and Supreme Court justices are all part of that professional league. The presidency is simply an instant ticket to the Hall of Fame located in the back of American history textbooks. Yet someone can become president and be considered a failure because their administration was unsuccessful. And that, why factual true, is morally wrong. Yes, it is hard to imagine Millard Fillmore as a winner, but men like Herbert Hoover who had public careers that were enormously beneficial to the nation should not be written off as failures.
John Quincy Adams is one of these individuals. He was serving his country since he was a boy when he worked for his father on the elder Adams' foreign ministries during the American Revolution. He would rise to be a senator, a diplomat in his own right, and at the peak of his first career he would become the Secretary of State.
Adams would emerge as one of the greatest to occupy the office of America's top diplomat. As the Secretary of State, Adams would be responsible for one of the greatest--if not most cited--diplomatic achievements in U.S. history: the Monroe Doctrine.
"Amid this hue and cry, Adams calmly insisted that it would be wiser if the nation remained alone in warning the world that the Western Hemisphere was on longer to be intruded upon. He added that if Europe should tamper with strivings for independence in Latin America, the United States must consider such action as hostile. He proposed the same response to Russia's encroachment in the Northwest quarter." (p.270)
Much like the next son of a president to become the President, John Quincy Adams election was mired in controversy. Failing to win the electoral or popular vote the election was decided by the House of Representatives in which Adams would prevail but paid a terrible price. As President of the United States he got off to a bad start and never recovered. All because of a perceived bargain made with Henry Clay.
"Nevertheless, despite Clay's merits, giving the Kentuckian the second most important office in the national government showed JQA's political ineptness. Since the new president had a long record of doing what he thought was right in the face of warnings, his action was not surprising. What was surprising was that Clay, normally so shrewd, accepted the position. For the rest of his life, he readily admitted that joining the Adams administration was the stupidest act of his career." (p.298)
Henry Clay whom Adams was accused of having a 'corrupt bargain' with by the Jacksonians
Two years after being tossed out of office in `the Revolution of 1828' Adams would begin a new career as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. As a congressman, he would lead battles that were controversial in his day: over slavery and war. He would also have a long-standing impact in helping to create the Smithsonian.
"Consequently, Adams was outraged when, after sharp debate, the House of Representatives adopted a new parliamentary procedure in May 1836 that became known as the gag rule. He had done what he could to oppose approving the rule, which decreed that all petitions or memorials touching in any way on slavery would be laid on the table without being printed, discussed or referred to committee. Southern congressman had demanded the rule after the anti-slavery movement began flooding Congress with petitions calling for the ending of slavery and the slave trade in the District of Columbia. Adams had found his mail bulging with them." (p.355)
Nagel's book however is not just about Adams' public career--as the title suggests--it is also about his private life. His family relationships with his parents, spouse, and children are all heavily featured in this book.
What I find really interesting however is Adams' religious beliefs. Although a lifelong Christian he had a strong disrespect for those who considered other supernatural beliefs and he also when confronted with some tenets of his own faith he had a hard time accepting them.
"Inevitably, his scriptural meditation brought him to an element of Christian doctrine that always upset him: was Christ sent by God to atone for humanity's sins? `I cannot believe it,' he said of atonement. `It is not true. It is hateful. But how shall I contradict St. Paul?' He wished the Calvinist ministers would leave him in peace. Inn his last years, he was even more impatient with those clergymen who habitually declared their congregants to be standing on the brink of Hell. He could not conceive of how persons of decent character would gather each Sunday in church to be treated like the vilest malefactors. `It seems to me as if the preacher considered himself a chaplain to a penitentiary, discoursing to the convicts.'
Would that clergy could stress the moral teachings of the New Testament, for Adams said here was where he had come to build his faith--which he now summarized with remarkable succinctness: `I reverence God as my creator. As creator of the world. I reverence him with holy fear. I venerate Jesus Christ as my redeemer; and, as far as I can understand, the redeemer of the world. But this belief is dark and dubious.'"(p.407)
Paul Nagel has written a good book about a great American. Much more than just a failed president he was an incredible statesman whose contributions can still be felt to this day.
I think you can take this same view with American statesmen and the presidency. The American presidency is the highest office that any American can possibly obtain. If an American becomes the President he (or, someday, she) has their picture in the back of every U.S. history textbook, their names are added to the president rap, and presidential history buffs such as myself make it a point to learn interesting details about their lives. In order to become president the statesmen have to use the electoral process to convince the nation that they should be the leader. Even presidents who achieve the presidency through vice presidential succession do so because to be elected vice president is to be elected stand-by leader[1]. Just doing that is amazing.
In some ways my analogy fails because I would not say the presidency was the professional level but rather the presidency, Congress, state governors, and Supreme Court justices are all part of that professional league. The presidency is simply an instant ticket to the Hall of Fame located in the back of American history textbooks. Yet someone can become president and be considered a failure because their administration was unsuccessful. And that, why factual true, is morally wrong. Yes, it is hard to imagine Millard Fillmore as a winner, but men like Herbert Hoover who had public careers that were enormously beneficial to the nation should not be written off as failures.
John Quincy Adams is one of these individuals. He was serving his country since he was a boy when he worked for his father on the elder Adams' foreign ministries during the American Revolution. He would rise to be a senator, a diplomat in his own right, and at the peak of his first career he would become the Secretary of State.
Adams would emerge as one of the greatest to occupy the office of America's top diplomat. As the Secretary of State, Adams would be responsible for one of the greatest--if not most cited--diplomatic achievements in U.S. history: the Monroe Doctrine.
"Amid this hue and cry, Adams calmly insisted that it would be wiser if the nation remained alone in warning the world that the Western Hemisphere was on longer to be intruded upon. He added that if Europe should tamper with strivings for independence in Latin America, the United States must consider such action as hostile. He proposed the same response to Russia's encroachment in the Northwest quarter." (p.270)
Much like the next son of a president to become the President, John Quincy Adams election was mired in controversy. Failing to win the electoral or popular vote the election was decided by the House of Representatives in which Adams would prevail but paid a terrible price. As President of the United States he got off to a bad start and never recovered. All because of a perceived bargain made with Henry Clay.
"Nevertheless, despite Clay's merits, giving the Kentuckian the second most important office in the national government showed JQA's political ineptness. Since the new president had a long record of doing what he thought was right in the face of warnings, his action was not surprising. What was surprising was that Clay, normally so shrewd, accepted the position. For the rest of his life, he readily admitted that joining the Adams administration was the stupidest act of his career." (p.298)
Henry Clay whom Adams was accused of having a 'corrupt bargain' with by the Jacksonians
Two years after being tossed out of office in `the Revolution of 1828' Adams would begin a new career as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. As a congressman, he would lead battles that were controversial in his day: over slavery and war. He would also have a long-standing impact in helping to create the Smithsonian.
"Consequently, Adams was outraged when, after sharp debate, the House of Representatives adopted a new parliamentary procedure in May 1836 that became known as the gag rule. He had done what he could to oppose approving the rule, which decreed that all petitions or memorials touching in any way on slavery would be laid on the table without being printed, discussed or referred to committee. Southern congressman had demanded the rule after the anti-slavery movement began flooding Congress with petitions calling for the ending of slavery and the slave trade in the District of Columbia. Adams had found his mail bulging with them." (p.355)
Nagel's book however is not just about Adams' public career--as the title suggests--it is also about his private life. His family relationships with his parents, spouse, and children are all heavily featured in this book.
What I find really interesting however is Adams' religious beliefs. Although a lifelong Christian he had a strong disrespect for those who considered other supernatural beliefs and he also when confronted with some tenets of his own faith he had a hard time accepting them.
"Inevitably, his scriptural meditation brought him to an element of Christian doctrine that always upset him: was Christ sent by God to atone for humanity's sins? `I cannot believe it,' he said of atonement. `It is not true. It is hateful. But how shall I contradict St. Paul?' He wished the Calvinist ministers would leave him in peace. Inn his last years, he was even more impatient with those clergymen who habitually declared their congregants to be standing on the brink of Hell. He could not conceive of how persons of decent character would gather each Sunday in church to be treated like the vilest malefactors. `It seems to me as if the preacher considered himself a chaplain to a penitentiary, discoursing to the convicts.'
Would that clergy could stress the moral teachings of the New Testament, for Adams said here was where he had come to build his faith--which he now summarized with remarkable succinctness: `I reverence God as my creator. As creator of the world. I reverence him with holy fear. I venerate Jesus Christ as my redeemer; and, as far as I can understand, the redeemer of the world. But this belief is dark and dubious.'"(p.407)
Paul Nagel has written a good book about a great American. Much more than just a failed president he was an incredible statesman whose contributions can still be felt to this day.
March 30, 2017
Nagel's biography of JQA proved to be a very readable text, illustrating the long public life of a man who lived an incredible life for the era. Reared by demanding parents and provided with unparalleled opportunities of travel throughout Europe as a teenager created within JQA an insatiable need to be someone special who would make an everlasting mark on mankind. His irasciable temperment and his unrealistic life goals resulted in the portrait of a man riddled with depression. His desire for a scholarly contemplative life was juxtaposed to his need to be in politics (always under the guise of being chosen by the masses and not his own self-promotion), the result being a man who desired that the world acknowledge his worth and value while wanting to swim against the tide of popular norms. His wife, Louisa, must have been a saint to endure living with a man who demanded of himself (and others) unattainable goals.
May 17, 2020
This biography of John Quincy Adams is just about perfect. It is substantial and scholarly, yet extremely readable. Although you certainly get well-acquainted with what events were shaping the world during JQA's lifetime, this book focuses a bit more on his personal life. And what an interesting character he was! I would be remiss if I didn't say I felt a connection with him and his constant resolves to waste less time, and improve himself in many different self-designed programs (walking a certain amount every day, spending an hour with the Scriptures to start the day, etc.). JQA is one of my very favorite presidents now!
February 26, 2021
A solid biography of John Quincy Adams - one of my favorite people to read about. I have read others that I feel are better as this one spends very little time on his presidency and his actions in the House after his presidency. I really enjoyed the sections about him as a person and his habits, but felt that the other people in his life got short thrift in these pages. Good introductory biography if you have not read about JQA in the previously.
July 20, 2018
Excellent biography of JQA - easy to read narrative style, drawn largely from JQA's vast diaries. Insightful regarding the private and the public personas of our 6th President (although, as a personal fan of Abigail Adams, it was a bit difficult to read how strongly the author criticizes Abigail's parenting personality!)
February 12, 2020
Very thorough and informative, this was something of a slog, and I'm not sure if that's because the prose was less interesting, or simply because JQA was such a dour, often unlikable man.
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