PRESIDENTIAL FEUDS, PART I: Re: Perpetually Behind

» Mugwump53 - Re: Perpetually Behind

In response to message posted by BrianTubbs:

Taking nothing away from Jefferson and Jackson, you are absolutely correct about both Adamses showing extraordinary moral courage and integrity, which cost both of them their re-elections.

John Adams broke with his own party to prevent the war with France the High Federalists wanted so much. The split in his party prevented any chances of re-election.

John Quincy Adams was much like his father. Both were not exactly popular, charming extroverts. Both were pompous, vain and overly sensitive. Yet both were true patriots and did what they thought best for the nation, even if it was not best for their section or party. Oh, for some pompous, able, patriotic (in the good old fashioned sense of the word) politicians!

Jefferson had moral courage, but as President, every time he did something he would have roasted Adams for doing, he told himself it was a necessary exception. He never got it that all those exceptions were the rule.

Jackson, of course, was never bound by things like principles. He could be avid states rights one moment (Indian removal by Georgia) and violently pro-central government the next (nullification crisis).

Thanks for your viewpoint. As always, you add something new to my articles about the early years of our government. As always, I appreciate it very much.

-- posted by Mugwump53