A mesoporous polymer and method of preparing a mesoporous polymer whose polymerization kinetics are dependent upon pH and whose pore size is controlled by pH and solvent concentration are disclosed. The polymer is optionally pyrolyzed to form a primarily carbonaceous solid. The material has an average pore size in the mesopore range and is suitable for use in liquid-phase surface limited applications including chromatographic, sorbent, catalytic, and electrical applications.