In "John Quincy Adams," Harlow Giles Unger explores the life of the sixth President of the United States, a figure deeply aware of the growing divisions within America. The quote, "America is on the point of bursting into flames," encapsulates Adams's anxiety about the nation's escalating tensions and conflicts. His presidency was marked by increasing polarization as issues like slavery, states' rights, and national unity came to the forefront, threatening to ignite widespread unrest.

Unger delves into Adams's struggles to maintain a delicate balance in a country fraught with discord. He illustrates how Adams's dedication to freedom and equality often placed him at odds with prevailing sentiments, leading him to become a prophetic voice advocating against the destructive forces that could unravel the nation. Overall, the book is a vivid portrayal of a leader caught in a transformative and turbulent era.