How many US Presidents also served as US Secretary of State?
A political tradition which died out in the mid-19th century was the elevation of the secretary of state to the office of president. Six 19th century presidents had previously served as the nation's top diplomat. The secretary of state position was considered such a launching pad to the presidency that men who sought the highest office were widely believed to have angled to be named secretary of state.
Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Martin Van Buren, and James Buchanan were all US Secretary of State before becoming President of the US.
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3 Comments
tyafter
As we have an international group here on Daily Quiz, I think this one is too close to home (the U.S.A.) for inclusion. I'm from Texas and I didn't know this. C'mon people...
John W Shreve
Ken Walkley, It's hard to read when you use all caps. I couldn't finish it, but am aware of your bad manners.
Ken Walkley
markdclark, you have to go much larger than six to be correct!