How to Research John Quincy Adams

John Quincy Adams was the sixth president of the United States and the only president elected to Congress after his presidency. You can learn more about him by following the steps below.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet
• Books about the presidents
• Books about American history

1. Search government and history websites and books to learn about the best-known aspect of John Quincy Adams--his status as the first president who was elected by the House of Representatives because he failed to win a majority of Electoral College votes.
2. Study his biographies to learn how he received the nickname "Old Man Eloquent" because of his abilities as a negotiator. Explore his opposition to slavery, the Mexican War and the annexation of Texas. Understand why he was considered an active secretary of state because of his role in the Adams-Onis treaty and the Monroe Doctrine.
3. Look for information on the extensive domestic improvements during his presidency, which had previously been considered unconstitutional. Also, look at his expansion of executive powers and why it was strongly opposed.
4. Study important legislation passed during Adams' presidency such as the Tariff of Abominations, an unpopular compromise.
5. Examine other significant events in Adams' presidency such as the completion of the Erie Canal connecting the Hudson River and Lake Erie. Learn about the Panama Congress which Adams was unable to attend. Also worthy of study is his role in the establishment of the Smithsonian Institution.