John Adams, the second president of the United States, was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts. His family could trace its lineage back to the first generation of Puritan settlers in New England and made major contributions to U. S. political and intellectual life for more than 150 years. John Adams was the fifth generation of Adams that descended from Henry and his father was also John. His mother was Susan Boylston, daughter of Peter Boylston from the same family.
John Adams was born into a comfortable, but not wealthy, Massachusetts farming family. His father, a deacon in the Congregational Church, earned a living as a farmer and shoemaker in Braintree, approximately fifteen miles south of Boston. His cousin Samuel Adams was a lynchpin of the American Revolution. John Quincy Adams, like his father, served as U. S. president. John Adams sacrificed his family life for his political one, spending much of his time separated from his wife, Abigail Adams, and their children.
John Adams was the oldest of the three sons and began attending schools in the community of Braintree at an early age. His father served as a moderator at town meetings and inspired John to take an interest in politics. After his retirement from public office, John and Abigail finally obtained the homelife they had always wanted and lived at Peacefield, their family farm in Quincy, Massachusetts. For the next twenty-six years, Adams seldom left home.
John Adams was born into a humble family of humble means and even humbler origins. After rejecting a career as a minister, John worked as a teacher before studying law. Once he established his legal practice, he married Abigail Smith in 1764, a minister’s daughter from Weymouth, Massachusetts. They had six children.
In summary, John Adams was a prominent figure in American history, known for his significant contributions to political and intellectual life. His family life was characterized by modest upbringing and a focus on law. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Americans to strive for equality and progress in the world.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| What was John Adams’s family like? | His cousin Samuel Adams was, like John Adams, a lynchpin of the American Revolution. John Quincy Adams, like his father, John Adams, served as U.S. president. | britannica.com |
| John Adams: Life Before the Presidency | His father, a deacon in the Congregational Church, earned a living as a farmer and shoemaker in Braintree, roughly fifteen miles south of Boston. | millercenter.org |
| John Adams | Biography, Political Party, Children … | His father was only a farmer and shoemaker, but the Adams family could trace its lineage back to the first generation of Puritan settlers in New … | britannica.com |
📹 John Adams – 2nd President of the United States Documentary
The script for this video has been checked with Plagiarism software and scored 1% on Grammarly. In academia, a score of below …
What Was John Adams' Family Life?
John Adams was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts, into a modest farming family. His father was a deacon in the Congregational Church and also worked as a farmer and cordwainer. Following his father's death in 1761, Adams inherited a 9+1⁄2-acre farm and the family home. He married Abigail Smith on October 25, 1764, and together they had six children: Abigail (known as "Nabby"), John Quincy, Susanna (who died young), Charles, Thomas, and Elizabeth. Despite his devotion to family, Adams often prioritized his political career, spending significant time away from his wife and children due to his legal work and political commitments.
Adams graduated from Harvard and initially pursued a career in law, which necessitated travel and distance from his family. His son, John Quincy Adams, later became the sixth President of the United States. Adams's lineage traced back to influential Puritan settlers in New England, contributing significantly to American political and intellectual life. John Adams distinguished himself as a Founding Father, serving as the first Vice President and the second President of the United States.
His relationship with Abigail, alongside their shared parental responsibilities, exemplified the challenges of balancing personal life with public duty during a transformative period in American history. The timeline of the Adams family spans from John’s birth in 1735 to his death in 1826, marking a legacy of political leadership.
Did John Adams Marry His Cousin?
John Adams and Abigail Smith were third cousins who grew up in devout Christian environments. John, raised on a farm, became a lawyer, while Abigail received a home education, as was typical for women of that era. Their connection continued through generations of their families, with John Adams II, the son of President John Quincy Adams, marrying his first cousin on February 25, 1828. This trend of familial marriage was common in the Adams lineage, as John Adams, the second president, had wed Abigail Smith, his third cousin.
Their extensive correspondence is a key historical feature, illustrating the depth of their relationship. Notably, John Adams had a close relationship with numerous relatives, including the celebrated Samuel Adams, who was also his cousin. John Adams's family lineage can be traced back to the Puritan settlers in New England, significantly impacting American political and intellectual life for over 150 years. His connections extended to notable figures like Elihu Adams, a captain in the Revolutionary War.
The marriage of John Adams II in 1828, held in the White House, epitomized this ongoing pattern of cousin marriages within the Adams family, reflecting the intertwining of personal and political legacies in early American history.
Which President Married Their Cousin?
Martha Wayles Skelton was Thomas Jefferson's third cousin, highlighting a notable trend among several U. S. presidents who married their relatives. Other examples include John Adams, who married his third cousin Abigail Smith, and President Franklin Roosevelt, who wed his fifth cousin once removed, Eleanor Roosevelt, amidst his mother's opposition. Additionally, Martin van Buren married his first cousin once removed, Hannah Hoes, while Benjamin Harrison, grandson of William Henry Harrison, wed his deceased wife's niece.
Even infamous figures like Jesse James engaged in relationships with relatives. The practice of marrying cousins hasn't been restricted to American leaders; it extends to monarchs, with many royal unions historically featuring cousins. For instance, Theodore Roosevelt was a fifth cousin of Franklin D. Roosevelt through Eleanor. On February 25, 1828, John Adams II solidified this familial trend by marrying his first cousin in the White House.
Notably, many cultures discourage cousin marriages, and in some places, it's illegal, yet throughout history, people have continued this practice. Thus, from Jefferson to Roosevelt and beyond, the intertwining of family ties within marriages reflects a significant aspect of historical relationships.
What Did John Adams Do For A Living?
John Adams, an American Founding Father, spent his later years at home on his farm, remaining engaged in public affairs, particularly regarding his son, John Quincy Adams. A key figure in the United States' foundation, he was the first Vice President from 1789 to 1797 and the second President from 1797 to 1801. Adams actively promoted American independence and played a significant role in the Continental Congress, shaped by his upbringing in Braintree, Massachusetts, as the son of a deacon and a farmer. His early life included outdoor pursuits, often skipping school to hunt and fish.
Adams was instrumental during the Revolutionary War, serving as a diplomat in Europe and negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war. His presidency was marked by controversy, notably the Alien and Sedition Acts. Adams, who was unsuccessful in securing a second term against Thomas Jefferson, was the first president to reside in the White House, moving in before its completion. A Harvard-educated lawyer, he dedicated his post-presidency years to writing and correspondence with political figures.
Adams lived a quiet life until his death in 1826, making a lasting impact as a leading advocate for independence and governance in the nascent United States. Throughout his life, he demonstrated strong commitment to liberty and democracy.
Has A Father And Son Ever Been President?
The occurrence of a father and son both serving as Presidents of the United States is quite rare, having only happened twice in American history. The first pair was John Adams, the second president (1797-1801), and his son John Quincy Adams, the sixth president (1825-1829). The second pair consisted of George H. W. Bush, the 41st president (1989-1993), and his son George W. Bush, the 43rd president (2001-2009). Beyond these father-son pairs, it is notable that Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president, was the grandson of William Henry Harrison.
The significance of this familial connection is underscored by the role both pairs played in shaping U. S. history. John Quincy Adams' upbringing as the son of significant historical figures, along with George W. Bush’s legacy being shaped by his father, highlights how powerful family connections can influence leadership styles.
Additionally, John Adams is recognized for being the only president to be the father of a future president until George H. W. Bush's era. Thus, these family ties reflect both historical continuity and the unique aspect of presidential lineage in the United States, showcasing how each generation adds to the nation’s narrative through their leadership. Overall, the father-son presidential duo phenomenon is a distinct and noteworthy occurrence in the annals of U. S. politics.
Was John Adams From A Rich Family?
John Adams was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts, into a comfortable but not wealthy farming family. His father, John Adams Sr., was a deacon in the Congregational Church and worked as a farmer and cordwainer. John was the first of three children in the family, which included two younger brothers. His mother, Susanna Boylston, hailed from a prominent medical family in Brookline, Massachusetts. Despite their modest means, the Adams family could trace their lineage back to the early Puritan settlers in New England.
Growing up in the tidy environment of New England, John was educated in local schools, beginning a lifelong journey of learning. He later became a Harvard-educated lawyer and an early leader in the patriot movement, significantly shaping U. S. political history. His marriage to Abigail Adams connected him to the influential Quincy family.
Notably, there was no considerable inheritance for the Adams family; instead, John was careful with his finances to avoid debt. After his presidency, he returned to a quieter life on his family farm in Quincy, Massachusetts, alongside Abigail, where he engaged in extensive writing, including correspondence with significant political figures. The Adams family left a lasting impact on American political and intellectual life.
Where Did John Adams Live After He Was President?
After serving as the second President of the United States (1797-1801), John Adams retired to a quiet life with his wife Abigail at their family farm, Peacefield, in Quincy, Massachusetts. They lived there for the next twenty-six years, where Adams engaged in extensive writing, including a notable correspondence with his friend and political rival, Thomas Jefferson. Both men passed away on Independence Day, July 4, 1826.
During his presidency, Adams was the first president to reside in the White House, moving in on November 1, 1800, despite it still being unfinished. Before that, he temporarily lived at Tunnicliff's City Hotel after relocating from Philadelphia when the capital moved to Washington, D. C. His presidential term was marked by his advocacy for American independence and involvement in the Continental Congress.
Adams returned to Quincy after his electoral defeat to Jefferson in 1800, experiencing a sense of sadness about his political demise. He found peace in retirement, often reflecting on his political life. Adams spent his final years engaged in his writings and nurturing his family, witnessing his son, John Quincy Adams, ascend to the presidency. He passed away in Quincy, where he famously whispered his last words, "Thomas Jefferson still survives."
What Were John Adams' Last Words?
John Adams retired to his farm in Quincy, where he spent time writing extensive letters to Thomas Jefferson. On July 4, 1826, at the age of 90, he uttered his last words: "Thomas Jefferson survives." Tragically, unbeknownst to him, Jefferson had passed away at Monticello a few hours earlier. Adams's final words are significant as they coincided with the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Although newspaper accounts reported his words as "Jefferson still lives," the essence remained the same—his thoughts were on Jefferson, whom he had a complex relationship with over five decades.
On his deathbed, when reminded of the date, Adams remarked, "It is a great day. It is a good day." Despite his age and fading health, he remained focused on his friend. In a moment of deep sleep, he proclaimed, "Thomas Jefferson survives," not realizing his friend had already died. Adams's last moments reflect both his enduring connection to Jefferson and the historical significance of the day.
The coincidences of their deaths on Independence Day only add to the poignancy of their friendship. John Adams passed away at 91, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with Jefferson's, marking a significant chapter in American history.
Who Were John Adams Parents?
John Adams was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts, the eldest son of John Adams Sr. and Susanna Boylston. He had two younger brothers, Peter and Elihu, and his ancestry can be traced back to Henry Adams, who emigrated from England in 1633. His maternal lineage comes from a notable medical family of present-day Brookline, Massachusetts. John Sr. was a farmer, shoemaker, and Congregationalist deacon. Initially, his father aspired for him to become a clergyman, but his debating skills led his professors to recommend a legal career.
At 15, John entered Harvard College and graduated in 1755, later teaching in Worcester. John Adams' substantial contributions include serving in the Continental Congress, being Vice President under George Washington, and later becoming the second president of the United States. His son, John Quincy Adams, would go on to be the nation's sixth president. Adams had a limited presence at home, often leading Abigail, his wife, to feel lonely. Notably, both John Adams and his son were remembered for their political accomplishments and diplomatic talents, establishing their family as integral to early American history.
Did John Adams Spend A Lot Of Time With His Family?
John Adams had a complicated relationship with his family, marked by frequent absences due to his political commitments. Abigail Adams frequently felt lonely and unhappy, particularly during significant events like childbirth when John was away. Despite the hardships, Abigail often framed her struggles as patriotic sacrifices, especially highlighted by the tragic loss of her unborn child in 1777 while John was in Philadelphia. John was deeply involved in public service, attending to government duties for extended periods.
After their marriage in 1764, John and Abigail had six children, with four surviving into adulthood. Despite the demands of public life, John Adams did maintain some connections with his family, particularly later when he could focus on his autobiographical writings. Born in Braintree, Massachusetts, in 1735, he was a notable Founding Father who served in various roles, including as President George Washington's vice president and the second President of the United States.
His son, John Quincy Adams, would also ascend to the presidency. John’s political obligations often kept him away from home, leading to a strained family life. After retiring, however, he enjoyed renewed time with his family and took pleasure in being with them at their home in Peacefield. His life illustrates the ongoing tension between personal sacrifice and public duty.
What Were John Adams Dying Words?
John Adams retired to his Quincy farm, where he exchanged letters with Thomas Jefferson and expressed his thoughts in his final moments. On July 4, 1826, he whispered, "Thomas Jefferson survives," unaware that Jefferson had died hours earlier at Monticello at the age of 83. Coincidentally, both men passed on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Adams, 90 at the time of his death, had a complex friendship with Jefferson over their five-decade connection. His last words are often quoted, reflecting the spirit of their era. Although he believed Jefferson was still alive, Adams had been mistaken; Jefferson had transitioned earlier that day.
The significance of their deaths on Independence Day was not lost. John Quincy Adams noted his father's final words in his diary, which highlighted the bond between the two founding fathers. Adams, the second President of the United States, had six children, with John Quincy later serving as the sixth president.
Adams's poignant farewell emphasizes the legacy of the founding fathers, underscoring their dream of a united nation. In a letter to his wife Abigail, he expressed that Independence Day should be celebrated with great fanfare. As the evening coolness set in, John Adams passed away at 91, leaving behind a rich historical narrative framed by his last sentiments regarding Jefferson.
📹 From 2001: David McCullough on founding father John Adams
Bestselling historian David McCullough died August 8, 2022 at age 89. In this “Sunday Morning” interview, originally broadcast on …
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John Adams has always been my favorite of the Founding Fathers. He was the bulldog of the group and who challenged all in his trying to move us forward. His love and devotion to his wife and the respect they had for each other is admirable. Also, that they treasured their correspondence between each other and others and maintained it for history is one of the great treasures we were bestowed. Others destroyed much of theirs but not the Adams. That shows how much faith they had in allowing us to know their feelings of those historical times. John has been overshadowed by others but because he refused to be silenced, he fought as hard and as furious as no other for our freedom and the development of our nation.
I also feel that bc of John Adams and his writing correspondences with many people, and the fact they were saved, gives us one the best first hand knowledge from that time period, as well as historical evidence. His dedication to keeping a detailed manuscript is possibly the greatest contribution to not only the time period, but also the mindset and view points of the major players of that time.
As a lifelong resident of Quincy, MA, home of 2 presidents, John Adams never received the accolades he deserved. He wrote the Constitution for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, which later became the blueprint for the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It was Adams who recommended Washington as Commander of the Revolutionary Army, when his friend John Hancock wanted the position. It was Adams who recommended Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence, when Congress wanted Adams to write it, but Adams believed Jefferson could be more eloquent. He also believed in public education for everyone. He was more honest, had more integrity than any other President, with perhaps the exception of Lincoln. I am very proud of the generations of Adams family for all their contributions to service to Massachusetts and the United States . John Adams should have a monument in Washington, DC.
In their time, Jefferson was known as The Pen of the Revolution, but Adams was The Voice. Much praise is given to Jefferson for his library but Thomas was amazed at how John was far more widely read. The two men eventually became political enemies, but renewed their friendship in their senior years. They both died on the exact same day, the 50th anniversary of the Fourth of July. Adams spoke of Jefferson with his dying breath.
“There is nothing which I dread so much as a division of the republic into two great parties, each arranged under its leader, and concerting measures in opposition to each other. This, in my humble apprehension, is to be dreaded as the greatest political evil under our Constitution.” ― John Adams So presciently wise…
I do believe that John Adams has been unfairly marginalized. The film series “John Adams” has done much to add to his recognition as a very major part of the founding and establishment of this country. And, of course, well documented and entertaining documentaries such as this furthers that recognition. Thank you so much. I really enjoyed perusal this.
A most beautiful and affectionate rendering of John Adams’ life. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I loved the summary at the end as I did your editorial comment on his less than than deserved recognition. I agree that in addition to what he did was a tremendous feat of intellect, his humanity also sets him apart from others. His move to retain a part of Washington’s cabinet to maintain some degree of continuity of government, shows his fairness though it might be argued that it was politically naive. His scholarship – intimate knowledge of classics such as Tacitus, Quintillian and Cicero – served him well in his own development. David McCullough’s biography I believe is an incredibly detailed portrait of a great man. I can’t wait to watch your other articles. Thank you again for taking the time and the effort.
Awesome documentary, Adams was a great man, stood strong with his ideals. The main thing I take away is he, like many others, thought freedom was our destiny as a new country. How to keep us free is always a struggle, so I will say bravo to his life, and bravo to those that thought otherwise, so bless all of their efforts as we sit here today. Long live our nation!
34:58 Not exactly. His two eldest children Nabby and John Quincy, accompanied their parents to France but JQ went back home to go to Harvard. Nabby remained with her parents in London, married William Stephens Smith there, and they had their first son soon after. When the 5 of them returned home, Nabby would go on to have three more children.
I grew up in New Jersey (1964-73), very near the lesser known winter Camp, for our Revolutionary Army; Jockey Hollow hosted Washington’s Army in two different winters. I believe that Valley Forge was used in between the two Jockey Hollow years. We learned “Valley Forge was better known, because they were more poorly prepared” (a bit of NJ chauvinism?) 😊 Our local heroine was a teen woman named Temperance “Tempe” Wick (Wycke?); the Tempe Wick Home, perfectly preserved, was the location where she reportedly managed to hide her horse, up the steep stairs in the house, away from a band of marauding Brit soldiers. Once clear, she brought the horse down (I’ve climbed that staircase a dozen times; I have no idea how she accomplished it(!)), and rode several miles into the Ford Mansion, in Morristown. That mansion was Washington’s residence when his Army was camped about 2 miles from my house. I know a lot(!) more about John Adams, now; the perspective that he only served one term, and was replaced by a slave-owner (Jefferson), is a sad new perspective. My childhood admiration of Jefferson, his work and writings, are certainly lessened by his intransigence towards ownership of enslaved peoples.
John adams was right up there with the rest of them….What none of these documentaries almost never brings out is the fact France went into very heavy debt for us during our fight for independence which was the major cause for the French Revolution and it’s success… All depends on the way one looks at it……..
“The turpitude, the inhumanity, the cruelty, and the infamy of the African commerce in slaves have been so impressively represented to the public by the highest powers of eloquence that nothing that I can say would increase the just odium in which it is and ought to be held. Every measure of prudence, therefore, ought to be assumed for the eventual total extirpation of slavery from the United States.” John Adams
This has been one of the best historical commentary that I think I have watched and listened to with absolute depth of perception and very interested so much of this is involved in things that wasn’t taught in world history and US history when I was in school. thank you very much for this. I do agree John Adams was a great great man and President of this country
I adore John Adams! He was a great lawyer, a fair man, though a little haughty. But also, a great father, a great founding father and one, notably, who managed to make it through life in these times without slaves! He is my favorite founding father and my favorite President of The United States! 🇺🇸
Nice overview. Adams’s self-pride and views about centralized governance with his being a proponent of federalism have created some second-fiddle feelings as related to his position as a Founding Father. Undoubtedly, historians have helped to resurrect his position more recently. The movie “John Adams” has helped.
I always think of John Adams as the Fire in Congress to get things done. He played a major role in getting Congress to Declare the United States Independence, helping Jefferson write the Declaration of Independence and served as Head of the War Department. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes, doing what was needed to support the American Continental Army.during the war for Independence. He had the education and credentials to do it. He was focused, diligent and when he made up his mind He was committed. His service and skills continued as our 1st VP to our 1st President George Washington and 2nd President of the United States of America. That is a long list of commitments and sacrifices He made in America’s early years; distinguishing Him as an essential Founding Father.
I’ve felt for a long time that the British should have known they were in serious trouble when men like Adams and Washington turned on them. They were cautious men. Realists–maybe even cynical. They weren’t idealists who’d end up imagining virtue in people that wasn’t there and would comfortably write of utopia from an imaginary position above the fray, like Jefferson. Nor were they hungry and ambitious or out for personal glory the way, say, Hamilton was. They weren’t going to stop, and they weren’t going to be discouraged. They would stay the course until they won. Adams was drawn into the fray because he was incensed at being treated as a second-class citizen and denied the rights and privileges of other Englishmen. Also because Great Britain tried to shut down his local government and dictate from across the ocean. He made critical contributions, in particular, in his insistence on the rule of law and on legal and political legitimacy of the revolution. That prepared the soil for a revolution that could do more than burn itself out and build something meaningful in the place of the old. He had vision.
It is ironic to me. The “Enlightenment ” was inspired my the English and French who had dealings with the Haudenosaunee Six Nations) who believed every man was a chief and subservient to no man. We then imported is as European Enlightenment. Go figure. The Six Nations are the second oldest representative democracy after Iceland.
Fun Facts: The rancor between Adams and Jefferson had gotten so bad that when it came time for the outgoing president to greet the incoming one, Adams actually snuck out ahead of time so as to avoid greeting Jefferson. Years later, they would not only make up but both would actually pass away on July 4th, 1826, the 5Oth anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. On his deathbed John Adams last words “Thomas Jefferson survives” had both hidden and heartbreaking meaning. Jefferson had died five hours before (unbeknownst to Adams) and both were the last living signers of the Declaration at that point. Adams’ statement was made as both a relief (that of all the signers, the author was the one who survived the longest) and a goodbye to his closest friend.
John and Abigail Adams have always been heroes, to me; much more deserving of recognition than Washington, who was a good man too, or Jefferson, who continuously tried to undermine Washington’s platform of equality and Hamilton’s vision of a stable Federal Banking system. Fortunately, he and Aaron Burr, with his own inflated ego problems, did not succeed!! 🙄
John Adams was a peculiar Founder. He is a stone upon which the Republic would not exist without his presence in its construction. His father was a cobbler; he was the only founder married to another founder (Abigail, read the story); he was stubborn to a fault (defending the soldiers of so-called Boston Massacre–very unpopular but extremely fair; long-suffering (read the stories of alcoholism in his children); capricious (his friendship with Jefferson should never have maintained, yet they both (died on the same day, 50 years to the day that they signed the Declaration) forgiving souls. It’s odd, I was born a mile or so from his home, have one of his descendants as an acquaintance, and know his external life as well as any historical figure’s and yet a person and historian, I find him to be a complete mystery. I suppose a true hero is a person that accomplishes great achievements without leaving outrageous track across the pages of history, such as his friend Jefferson did. Washington’s slaves were set free upon his passing; Jefferson’s slaves were resold (except for his common-law wife and children Sally Hemmings (that is hypocrisy, though there is no doubt that Jefferson was a true genius and a spendthrift (a good bottle of wine kept some his slaves in chains, what shame). Adams died in simplicity. To be simple and foundation stone of your country, perhaps, make one a hero or a legend. Adams lived a life of service, maybe not a glorious life but one that those of his blood can be proud of down to this day.
I love John Adams! Ever since I saw the HBO series John Adams, I saw him in a different light. I have loved him ever since. John Adams did so much and never got any praise for what he did. I was glad to see in your article that you stated that in the end. How others got the praise even though Adams was right there with them. Great article about John Adams!!!
Your conclusion is correct. John Adams was the Greatest of our Founding Fathers. And in one of the best documentaries on the subject that I have see, i must point out that you are incorrect about the precipitant the created our independence. The Declaration did not create our Independence and therefore the United States. That was created by the passage of the Resolution that the Colonies are now “and by rights ought to be free and independent state.” The resolution was passed on July 2,1776 after a fierce debate where Adams argued on the floor of Congress for 6 hours against the opposition and convinced all states to vote unanimously for Independency. That created the United States . Not the Declaration that was merely a public relations announcement. Nothing really happened on July 4,1776.
JOHN QUINCY ADAMS Pros: Reduced the National Debt from $16 Million to $5 Million Was the first President to denounce slavery! Purchased Florida from Spain. Cons: He was not very effective at getting his reforms implemented, and was often thwarted by Congress. Technically lost the election to Andrew Jackson, but was chosen by the House of Representatives.
While ALL the founding fathers had their parts to play, some at more critical times than others, John Adams I feel, was the founding father that established the CRITICAL importance of all men (and of course all Women later when they gained the vote and had gained full suffrage at law) being equal before the law AND the supremacy of the law of the land being paramount. This would be the guiding principal of the nation above all others, a principal that I fear has been lost today with the dual codes of law being pursued by one political party over the other and the criminalization of those who felt that they needed to have their voices heard when they felt were being deceived and cheated in the most important Presidential election (save for G. Washington’s and A. Lincoln’s elections) in the history of this nations history. Unfortunately, John Adams (except for his son John Quincey) is probably one of, if not the most underrated and over looked Presidents this nation has ever had.
John Adams was an amazing man and much of what we have to be grateful for as Americans comes from his brilliant and reasoned mind. With that said, if he truly is a founding father them, Abigail Adams must be a mother of America. Abigail was an extremely intelligent and thoughtful woman and one that I’m certain that… Had she not been John’s wife, we may not know who the Adams were. She was the tempering force in John’s life and mind. She was a muse and editor that John relied on immensely. I suspect we owe as much to Abigail as we do to John and all of the Adams family for the sacrifices they made to build this great nation.
My ancestor was William Berry who came soon after the Mayflower. He settled a place called Strawberry Banke in New Hampshire. It does amaze me that all these people came here seemingly with no concern that there were already people living here. They didn’t seem too concerned about it…just moved right in and made their own laws. Imagine if that happened today!
I agree that Adams’ role in the founding has been eclipsed by Jefferson and Washington. Little time is spent on Adams in school, but after seeing the HBO series a few years ago, I see that is a mistake. I think a lot of jr high and high school teachers aren’t capable of teaching about Adam’s philosophical background and how it contributed to his support of the revolution, and so he gets short shrift compared to the perceived larger-than-life actions of Washington, Jefferson, and Franklin.
Some years ago, I read both biographies of John Adams, and his wife Abigail. Here, is where I gained more knowledge, about his contributions during the early years of American government. I was most astonished by the letters between his wife, Abigail to influence a reconciliation between her husband, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. In one of her letters to Jefferson she let him know how displeased she was, about him taking one of his his young slave girls, abroad with him. She shared her pious thoughts. The child Sally, at this time, was about 12 years old. Abigail had heard somehow from Americans visiting abroad, the young child, Sally was pregnant by her master, Thomas Jefferson. Listening to this documentary, refresher of my reading. Thank you very much.
I am a descendant of Edward Adams who was a first cousin of John. John Adams not only did not have slaves but he tried to get slavery abolished by adding it to the constitution but congress would not allow it so it was removed by them before they would accept the constitution so Thomas Jefferson omitted it. Reason? The congressmen were slave owners themselves.
As I watch the article I comment on it. The Boston tea party was also because them I think it was giving british east india co. 7 million dollar tax break and all they have to do is sell a shitton of cheap tea which would have made market prices/trade of tea value go into the toilet while possibly still having same tax regulations on everyone BUT the East india co. Dumping 2 million dollars worth of tea into boston harbor is indeed an awesome protest against some government BS.
I thank everyday that these men did what they did for the freedoms that I hold so dear. Yes some could have done more and others went too far. But this is the politics of man and we seldom achieve our dreams of how it should be, yet these men put it all on the line to pursue this great experiment of freedom!
Idk about the “unfairly eclipsed by George Washington” part. GW is the gold standard of presidents for a reason. Had the chance to be king, turned it down, gave up power after 2 terms and set a lot of standards we still go by. He was also against slavery but unfortunately too financially unstable to do anything about it personally. Had he come out and openly campaigned about how slavery needed to be abolished in pre arranged, supported stages over the next 25-30 years(Immediate and unplanned manumission is a terrible idea, just look at how the late 1860’s went) he would be regarded as truly prescient.
John Adams last words: “Thomas Jefferson lives!!!” Believing that Thomas Jefferson was the last person of the Revolution to still be alive, but TJ had died a few hours earlier than John. John Adams lived to be 90-years old and died on July 4th 1826. The fourth longest living president in American history….To be honest, he wanted to run for a second term, but the news of peace with Napoleon didnt arrive quickly enough for his campaign. His motto was going to be “I kept peace with France!!” which he did!!! Brought to him by his son John Quincy Adams, but seeing is how letters and messages arrived in weeks back then the new didnt arrive fast enough and Thomas Jefferson, his old friend beat him in the election. “Mr. President.” Mr. President, John Adams would reply. ❤
As Pres. James Buchannon once declared ” History will exonerate my Legacy ( no one exonerate a Doug face, northern who sympathize with Southerners’ abusive treatment of slavery) People WILL John Adams exonerate for his contributions!! BOTH father & son made strives in reversing policies concerning slavery. HBO movie was made about the 1st Adam’s life & the 2nd’s court room battle of The armistead proceedings made into a movie 🍿🎥 with Anthony Quinn playing John Quincy Adams
John Adams was the greatest founding father; without him, our nation could not have been born. His presidency was impacted by Jefferson’s betrayal, who undermined him at every turn. Instead of a Jefferson memorial, we should have Adam’s memorial. Mount Rushmore should have Adam’s face instead of Jefferson’s.
There is a mythology surrounding the authorship of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams and others on the committee assigned to the job of it’s production were very involved in the debate process in the Continental Congress while the young Thomas Jefferson had little to say, but as a good compiler, was given the job, by the committee to write the document.
I do not understand if you considered yourself “religious”, how you can read the Bible, sit in church over the years as your pastor repeatedly gives sermons on Moises, turn around and watch movies on the subject, and then support or look the other way when the subject of other humans being exploited comes around. Overlooking a man crying for what is being inflicted on him and his family is a crime, regardless of skin color. A crime against God. We are all God’s creation. “Religion” without spirituality? Adams was a reflective, thus evolving and enlighten man indeed.
I firmly agree that John Adams was instrumental and pivotal as one of the most important figures in the founding of this great nation. Washington gets most of all of the credit for being the general who fought he British and was the hero so to speak, and John was the administrator or pencil pusher for all that making sure that the army was trained, properly equiped had ammo and powder and with out johns work on that end Washington wouldn’t have had an army. And you have to remember that early on in the war Washington was in retreat most of the time running over here and running over there to Cornwallis off his behind. But it’s always the officers that get the hero status. Without John and his supply efforts George would of got his ass kicked. Jefferson penned most of or all he declaration but John and Ben helped tremendously. The term inalienable rights both john and Ben contributed to. So Thomas gets the credit there because he really did all the writing. Thomas wasn’t an orator he is as the quiet one who listened and analyzed and wrote. John gave her m the freedom to write it pretty much undisturbed so he was instrumental and there. As far as France and Ben Franklin, Ben Franklin was a partier and ale drinking bar maid chasing person he like to go to the pubs and drink ale get drunk and chase the girls that were half his age and that’s what the French liked about Ben is that he would stay up all hours of the night partying and and flirting with the french women at these late night party’s and negotiate things half crocked all the time.
The big thing that I respected was he was willing to do things the dirty work ….he defended the British soldiers after the Boston…was on the committee who drafted the Declaration remember the the document was approved on July 2nd not the 4th …5 men signed the document on the 4th the rest of the signatures was when in the men signed while drifting in and through Philadelphia they were hurried a bit to leave as it was the annual yellow fever pandemic the last signature was affixed around 1783….I would have the major stress …He must have been terrified when he was named the first US AMBASSADOR to Great Britain
First Amendment Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. George Washington
Rather surprised you skipped right over the momentous election of 1800 and the tie between Jefferson and Burr which threw the race into the House of Representatives. Although there had been some reforms to make the process more straight-forward, there were hiccups enough that even more reforms were needed. I realize this article (which was excellent) was about John Adams, the election of 1800 did deserve more explanation.
Watching Madison build the first roof over the winter locker at sickle bull rush called, the place with A. Alex of port, and render an pair for a whole wheel of 1747. From the sun affirmed for snoring and the 600 power of logans sideways pre order for Merriam from painting on a desk, not with armpits after chia pet boga Luna.
I love it, if a time or perriode stands for my eyes – with as much as possible kontext… Alkohol and Alkoholism is a fluid concept…. Imagine the living in a middleage town…. By the way – this was not the dark age… as Jaspers – with some phenotypes told us… End of roman imperium was not the vacuum… Middleage town… what did they with the trash, where did they piss and crap… sometimes – see it on old pictures – someone crapped into the water … and the wimen washed the linnen twenty metres away from it… In most cases it was better for the body to drink Beer than the water…. I agree – the subject of your splendit presentation with patterns of behaviour… of an alkoholist… We know this – Der Weg zur Hölle ist mit guten Vorsätzen gepflastert…
There is I think 2 judges/juries I think Adams “acquitted” the boston massacre soldiers of which I think they have 1 trial transcripts from of I think the 2 Adams tried. and other trial later in england or other jurisdictions. So the soldiers had 3 or 4 trials over the incident at least. A few of the guys maybe the captain and like 2 other guys or maybe only the captain at least from 1 trial had his thumb branded with m which I understand means manslaughter and if he gets arrested/suspected in a persons’ death in the future then the justice system would not treat them the same with the brand on his thumb. There was weird stuff in england at the time nailing ear to a post for theft of food or like guy in 1760’s having to be locked in the stocks for 2 hours for kissing his wife on sunday after arriving from out to sea. So the justice system in the olden days a little weird but yeah for the most part the Boston massacre soldiers didn’t get in too much trouble after all. I do think it was an accident.
Now George and Thomas and Ben would have been the men to know if you wanted to party. George at Mt. Vernon was producing all the whiskey, n the 1780s he produced something like 16 million gallons of whiskey, Thomas grew cannabis for the hemp used in all the ropes for the ships riggings because the ropes being made of hemp weren’t susceptible to weakening from the saltair and water and Ben was known by all the bar maids so George brought the booze, tommy brought the weed and Ben brought the girls perfect combo for those who wanted to party. Lol
Is this the President that President Trump talks about in his speeches. Whose example he wishes to follow, You should do programme on President Grover Cleveland, he is interesting, only President to hold office twice non,- consecutively. President Trump will be the same as President Grover Cleveland, with God’s help.
John Adams was an eltist who more than any other “founding father”. Kept alive classism, ties to and worship of the british crown and elitism. His dictatorial Massachusetts constitution, that he crammed through, despite it’s rejection of the majority of the voters reflects this. “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it” Santayana. This is just more propaganda 230 some odd years later. He was all about the importance of the elite ruling. It neglects to point out the fact that the prime basis of the US revolution against Great Britain. Was because the British government was corrupt and did whatever they could to support the multinational companies who enriched their own pockets… Does that sound familiar to things today?