John Adams

The first U.S. Vice President and second President, John Adams was also father of John Quincy Adams, the nation's sixth President. He was present at every stage and important event in the American Revolution. Born in Braintree, MA (later renamed Quincy), he graduated from Harvard College in 1755, and taught school while studying law. In 1764, he married Abigail Smith, who became his lifelong adviser as well as beloved wife. Adams originally stood in the shadow of his second cousin, Samuel Adams, but gained a solid reputation as a Constitutional lawyer. John Adams emerged as a leader in opposition to the Stamp Act of 1765. As a member of the Continental Congress he suggested naming George Washington as commander-in-chief of the army, in part in order to gain Virginia's support for the war. He suggested writing constitutions for the various states, in order to couch the separation from England...