Nov 21, 2016
Lots of people have given John Quincy Adams the title of America's greatest diplomat. But could he negotiate his way to the title of America's funniest president?
Biographer James Traub ("John Quincy Adams: Militant Spirit") is our excellent expert this week, and he tells us how Adams developed a personality to suit his work in foreign relations. We're also looking for humor in one of the most remarkable documents ever produced by a president: JQA's 15,000-page journal. Get a glimpse of the personality of one of the most interesting guys to ever serve this country.
"John Quincy Adams: Militant Spirit" on Amazon.com
James Traub on Foreign Policy's website
MUSIC: Hail Columbia, "Quincy Street Stomp" by the Bechet-Nichols Blue Five, "Quincy Hopping" by Larry Elgart's Orchestra