John Quincy Adams Elected by House of Representatives
February 9th, 1825
February 9th, 1825

How Long Ago?
200 years, 1 month, 6 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Henry Clay
- John Quincy Adams
- Andrew Jackson
- William H. Crawford
Links & References
- United States House of Representatives
- United States Electoral College
- President of the United States
- John Quincy Adams
- 1824 United States presidential election
- Contingent election
Tags
John Quincy Adams Elected by House of Representatives
In February 1825, after no presidential candidate won a majority of electoral votes in the election, the United States House of Representatives convened to elect John Quincy Adams as the sixth President of the United States. The election was among four strong candidates—Adams, Andrew Jackson, William H. Crawford, and Henry Clay—who all garnered significant support. After a contentious deliberation, the House chose Adams, setting the stage for his contentious presidency.
No candidate secured a majority of electoral votes
Decision passed to the House of Representatives
Henry Clay's support was crucial for Adams
Event led to the term 'corrupt bargain'
What Happened?
The election of 1824 was marked by unique circumstances as none of the candidates received a majority of the electoral votes, which were required to secure the presidency. John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson, William H. Crawford, and Henry Clay emerged as the key contenders. Andrew Jackson received the most popular and electoral votes but fell short of the necessary majority. As mandated by the U.S. Constitution, following the electoral impasse, the decision was left to the House of Representatives. This procedural move was relatively rare and underscored divisions within the political landscape of the time.
In February 1825, the House of Representatives convened to deliberate on the election outcome. The process was fraught with political maneuvering and backroom deals. Henry Clay, who was the Speaker of the House and a candidate himself, played a prominent role in the deliberations. Ultimately, he threw his support behind Adams, which proved pivotal in securing the latter's election. This allegation of a 'corrupt bargain' between Adams and Clay would later haunt both their political careers and add to the bitterness of Jackson's supporters.
Adams' presidency would begin with controversy but also great ambition, as he aimed to implement a robust agenda concerning internal improvements and the promotion of sciences. However, his administration faced continuous resistance from Jacksonian Democrats, which would lead to a polarized political atmosphere. The election of John Quincy Adams illustrated the complexities and evolving nature of American democracy, reflecting emerging party lines and the struggles for influence among various political factions.
Why Does it Matter?
The contingent election of John Quincy Adams signifies a pivotal moment in American political development. It demonstrated the potential for controversy inherent in the electoral process, particularly when candidates split popular support. The subsequent 'corrupt bargain' narrative that transpired between Adams and Clay came to symbolize the growing political schisms and intensifying electoral narratives that would shape future elections.
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