John Adams

Date of Birth: October 30, 1735

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: July 4, 1826

Biography

John Adams was an American statesman, attorney, diplomat, writer, and Founding Father who served as the second president of the United States from 1797 to 1801. Before his presidency, he was a leader of the American Revolution that achieved independence from Great Britain and served as the first vice president of the United States under George Washington. Adams was a key advocate for independence and played a significant role in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Born into a modest farming family in Braintree, Massachusetts, Adams was a highly educated man who graduated from Harvard College. He became a prominent lawyer and gained fame for his defense of British soldiers involved in the Boston Massacre, demonstrating his commitment to the rule of law. Adams was deeply involved in the political activities of the time, attending the Continental Congress and serving as a diplomat in Europe. During his presidency, Adams faced significant challenges, including navigating the quasi-war with France and dealing with internal political strife marked by the passage of the Alien and Sedition Acts. Despite these challenges, he avoided war and maintained a strong federal government. After his presidency, Adams retired to his farm in Quincy, Massachusetts, where he continued to write and engage in intellectual pursuits until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about John Adams

1. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on the same day, July 4, 1826, which was the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

2. Adams was the first president to reside in the White House, moving in before construction was fully completed.

3. He was a prolific writer, and his extensive correspondence with his wife, Abigail Adams, provides valuable insights into the era.

4. John Adams was a cousin of Samuel Adams, another key figure in the American Revolution.

5. His son, John Quincy Adams, later became the sixth president of the United States.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Adams

1. “Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.”

2. “Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.”

3. “I must study politics and war that my sons may have liberty to study mathematics and philosophy.”

4. “The happiness of society is the end of government.”

5. “Old minds are like old horses; you must exercise them if you wish to keep them in working order.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Adams’ estimated net worth, adjusted for inflation, was around $25 million at the time of his death.

Children

John Adams had six children with his wife, Abigail Adams: 1. Abigail “Nabby” Amelia Adams Smith (1765–1813) 2. John Quincy Adams (1767–1848), who became the sixth president of the United States. 3. Susanna Adams (1768–1770), who died in infancy. 4. Charles Adams (1770–1800) 5. Thomas Boylston Adams (1772–1832) 6. Elizabeth (stillborn in 1777)