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- The lesser-known habits among past American presidents range from athletic to creative, and even to the delicious.
- These habits helped the leaders of the free world unwind.
Though presidential legacies are mostly comprised of the policies that shape society and government for years after they leave office, some who served in the White House had memorable ways of unwinding as well.
Many presidents continued to be avid athletes from their youth into office, but some other passions including painting, crosswords, and swimming were a part of their terms as well.
Here are some of the unexpected ways presidents have passed their time:
George Washington: dancing
VCG Wilson/Corbis via Getty Images
Washington was a regular dancer through his teens and came to regard it as an important social interaction, calling it "the gentler conflict."
Source: Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
Thomas Jefferson: food and wine
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Jefferson’s time in France fueled his passion for the country’s fine wine and unique foods including french fries, ice cream, and mac and cheese, which he’s credited for popularizing in America.
Source: The Thomas Jefferson Foundation
John Quincy Adams: skinny dipping
AP
The sixth president was notoriously meticulous, keeping daily journals that detailed his morning routine. After waking up around 4 or 5 a.m., Adams would walk two miles to the Potomac River and leave his clothes by the shore to swim.
Source: Business Insider
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Source: Business Insider