The Adams Sorrow: The Second Generation

Originally posted on Presidential History Blog:

John Quincy Adams was never a teetotaler. The eldest son of John and Abigail could even be considered a heavy drinker.

The Second Adams Generation

Having spent his formative years in the great capitals of Europe, John Quincy Adams (1767-1848) was introduced early on (as most Europeans are) to the fruits of the vine.

Even in his Harvard years, JQA (as he referred to himself,) was known to enjoy an evening of wine and song, roistering with his fello...