John Quincy Adams (1767-1848)
"Old Man Eloquent" 6th President of the United States (1825-1829)
He was preceded in the Presidency by James Monroe and after serving one term in office for the Democratic-Republican Party was succeeded in 1829 by Andrew Jackson. His Vice-President throughout was John C. Calhoun. Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, he was the eldest son of the 2nd U.S. President, John Adams. He received an excellent education from tutors at home and in Europe, as well as diplomatic experience as a teenager accompanying his father on European missions. In his pre-presidential years he was one of America's greatest diplomats, formulating among other things what came to be called the Monroe Doctrine. As President (1825-1829), he promoted internal improvements and scientific advancement but faced fierce political opposition. After losing re-election in 1828, he embarked on the most distinguished phase of his career as a congressman, serving from 1831 until his death and taking an active role against slavery. Nicknamed "Old Man Eloquent," he died in the Capitol building having served his country for over five decades. In 1797, he married Louisa Catherine Johnson and had four children, three of whom survived to adulthood. He died leaving an estate of $400,000.