John Adams

(1735–1826)

John Adams was a driving force behind American independence and one of the boldest voices in the First Continental Congress. Known for his fiery spirit, deep intellect, and unwavering commitment to liberty, Adams played a crucial role in uniting the colonies and setting the stage for revolution. As a signer of the Declaration of Independence, his legacy endures as a founding architect of this American republic.

John Adams was born in Braintree, Massachusetts, on October 30, 1735. A Harvard graduate, he began his career as a schoolteacher before becoming a lawyer in 1758. In 1764, he married Abigail Smith, and they had five children, including John Quincy Adams, who would later become the sixth U.S. President.

Signature and Image of John Adams, Signer of the Declaration of Independence. — The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Print Collection, The New York Public Library. “John Adams,” The New York Public Library Digital Collections. 1868 – 1869. https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47da-2b39-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99

Adams rose to prominence after defending British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre in 1770. A strong advocate for independence, he served in the First Continental Congress in 1774, nominated George Washington to lead the Continental Army, and played a key role in drafting and defending the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

He later served as a diplomat in France and Great Britain, was elected the first Vice President in 1789, and became the second U.S. President in 1796.

John Adams died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. He is buried alongside his wife, Abigail, his Son, John Quincy Adams, and his wife, Louisa Catherine Adams, in the United First Parish Church in Quincy, Massachusetts.

John Adams also signed the Articles of Confederation, the Continental Association, and the 1775 Olive Branch Petition.

We thank you, John Adams, for your sacrifices and dedication to the founding of this great nation. Posterity will tell the story!

“Posterity! you will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven that I ever took half the pains to preserve it.”

― John Adams (exerpt from a letter to his wife Abigale 26 April, 1777)