He became the second President of the United States. Born October 30, 1735 in Braintree (now Quincy) Massachusetts. Because he lived in an age of very great men, John Adams, despite his extraordinary accomplishments, he would stand second in almost everything he did.
He graduated from Harvard College in 1755. By 1758, he was practicing law. On October 25, 1764, he married Abigail Smith. From 1774-77 he attended the Continental Congress as delegate from Massachusetts. His thoughts and ideas would help shape our future nation. In 1779, he wrote the constitution for the State of Massachusetts. John Adams was sent to Europe as diplomat from 1778 to 1788 to defend his nation to the countries of Europe including Great Britain where he spent three years.
He returned home to become the first Vice-President of the United States. A role in which he was overshadowed by the greatness of George Washington. He was then elected as Second President in 1797 and remained there till 1801. As a scholar and proficient writer in the theory of government, Adams brought to the Presidency a greater knowledge of political Science than any other President. He inherited Washington's Cabinet and was not liked by them and they would also help to defeat him in his run for a second term.
John Adams would leave the Presidency saying, " may none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof." He was referring to the home of the President. He would die the same day Thomas Jefferson died on July 4, 1826 on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence for which they had both struggled so hard.
Reference:
1. The History of the Presidency, 2000, Compiled.
