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.
