John Adams (October 30, 1735 – July 4, 1826) was the first Vice President of the United States (1789–1797) and later became the second President (1797–1801). Adams was also one of the drafters of the Declaration of Independence and a Founding Father, ranking alongside George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin.

Early Life and Career

Adams was born into a farming family in Massachusetts. His father was a shoemaker, farmer, devout Puritan, occasional minister, and representative in local governance, leading a simple life. Adams was exceptionally intelligent from a young age and considered a “child prodigy.” He studied law, became a lawyer, wrote articles criticizing the Stamp Act, actively participated in colonial politics, and ardently pursued freedom and independence, making him one of the strongest advocates for American independence.

Continental Congress and Revolutionary Leadership

In 1774, Adams served as a delegate to the First Continental Congress and later attended the Second Continental Congress, earning the title “Giant of American Independence.”

In 1775, at the Continental Congress, Adams nominated George Washington as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, a position Washington accepted. During the same Congress, Adams was appointed chairman of the Committee of War and Ordnance, effectively overseeing military operations. He was considered “the man in charge” and reportedly worked eighteen hours a day, earning the nickname “the Soul of American Independence.”

Political Philosophy

Adams was aristocratic in demeanor, quick-tempered, and often difficult to get along with, leaving him few friends. He championed independence but distrusted the general populace and opposed broad democracy. Adams believed the United States should be governed by the capable and influential. He once praised the four prominent families of Boston, remarking on the virtue of aristocracy. He favored a conservative revolutionary model, including monarchy-leaning or aristocratic elements, hereditary parliament, and a life-term presidency. He warned of the dangers of unchecked democracy and sought an orderly liberty, believing that the wealthy should have power guided by institutions and checked by a strong executive.

Diplomatic Career

During the Revolutionary War, Adams served as a diplomat to France and the Netherlands, helping secure alliances and foreign aid for the American cause. Britain regarded him as the second most “dangerous figure” after Washington, and British agents relentlessly pursued him. In 1784, Adams became the U.S. minister to Britain, serving for four years before returning home.

Vice Presidency and Presidency

Adams served as Vice President throughout Washington’s eight-year presidency. In 1796, he was elected President of the United States.

In November 1800, shortly before the next presidential election, Adams oversaw the transfer of the capital from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C., becoming the first President to occupy the White House. Days later, he lost the election to Thomas Jefferson. Despite his defeat, Adams graciously congratulated Jefferson, left the White House, and returned to his hometown of Quincy, Massachusetts, where he lived out his remaining years.

Death and Legacy

John Adams died on July 4, 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, at the age of 90. His final words were, “Thomas Jefferson still survives,” unaware that Jefferson had died just hours earlier. At that time, there was no telegraph, and communication relied on horseback messengers. Their deaths on the same national holiday became a famous story in American history.

Adams is remembered as a “political philosopher.” Another notable achievement was raising his son, John Quincy Adams, who became the sixth President of the United States.