History ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-2026

Abstract

The early diaries and letters of Charles Francis Adams (1807-1886) reveal, contrary to previous scholarship, a passionate and sensitive young man engaged in multiple social activities with male and female friends and family, as well as enjoying licentious and respectful personal relationships with women. CFA was strategic with whom he was friendly or reserved, rooted in his hostility towards “hangers-on” and “hypocrites.” CFA also read widely both fiction and non-fiction with an affected sensitivity consistent with his desire for a literary-oriented life, the latter most reflected in his later curating his forebears’ papers. CFA’s early life experiences led CFA to decide to leave behind an adolescent, self-centered pursuit of pleasure and, instead, embrace sometimes concurrent or conflicting duties to protect his family’s well-being, promote his forebears’ legacy, and engage in antislavery politics. The thesis calls for reevaluating CFA’s life as significant in U.S. political and literary history, and as a person prioritizing devotion to his family.

Level of Degree

Masters

Degree Name

History

Department Name

History

First Committee Member (Chair)

David Prior

Second Committee Member

Jason Smith

Third Committee Member

Shannon Withycombe

Language

English

Keywords

Adams, Charles, U.S., nineteenth, century, adolescence

Document Type

Thesis

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