After losing the 1828 election to Andrew Jackson, Adams retired to Quincy, Massachusetts. But not for long. In November 1830, the 12th District (Plymouth) of Massachusetts elected him to the U.S. House of Representatives. Some historians regard this as the best phase of his public-service career. He served from 1831 until his death in the Capitol building on February 23, 1848, after suffering a stroke two days earlier in the House chamber.

Adams had a very independent streak. How did that help him be successful in Congress?