The subject matter disclosed herein relates to compositions and methods of making and using the compositions. In a further aspect, the subject matter disclosed herein relates to inhibitors of STAT3 dimerization. Methods of making these compositions as well as compositions comprising these compositions are also disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of treating or preventing certain cancers by administering to an individual in need thereof and effective amount of the compounds disclosed herein. Still further, disclosed herein are methods of inhibiting STAT3 by contacting a cell with a compound or composition as disclosed herein.