PDF Summary:John Adams, by David McCullough

The Continental Congress and America's quest for freedom found a resolute defender in John Adams. As a young lawyer, he foresaw the colonies' burgeoning potential as a sovereign nation, long before the Revolutionary War claimed its first lives.

John Adams by David McCullough follows one of America's founding fathers as he champions independence, forges daring diplomatic ties with European allies, and endeavors to shelter his loved ones from the turmoil. Adams' uncompromising principles reverberate through the birth of a nation, as he emerges as an unshakable patriot and vital architect of revolutionary ideals.

In this meticulously researched biography, McCullough brings his signature flair for detail to a nuanced portrait of Adams' life and key role in the Revolutionary era. From storied moments Adams helped set in motion—appointing Washington as commander, advocating for independence, securing Dutch aid—to profound private struggles and a steadfast partnership with his wife Abigail, this narrative captures the many facets of a heroic, headstrong man driven to forge America's destiny.

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John Adams played a pivotal role in facilitating diplomatic negotiations.

John Adams was assigned to a diplomatic role in France.

Despite his doubts about his aptness for the role and lack of experience, he agreed to undertake the diplomatic assignment in France.

Having made a considerable contribution to the early stages of the Continental Congress and playing a pivotal role in the creation of Massachusetts' constitution, John Adams yearned to return to his legal profession and relish the tranquility of his Braintree residence as 1777 drew to a close. However, as recounted by McCullough, destiny played its hand. John Adams took over the role of commissioner in France following Silas Deane, who had been called back to respond to accusations of improper behavior. Adams was torn between the temptation of a peaceful personal existence and a sense of duty to his country, which made him doubt his suitability for roles in diplomacy. Adams expressed to James Lovell that he needed no convincing or justification to accept such an important duty, provided it was clear that it would benefit the public interest. Adams agreed to undertake the mission, cognizant of its significance and his pivotal role, even though he was wary of the potential consequences his absence might have on his family, professional life, and his fervor for writing.

Adams embarked on his first voyage that took him outside the confines of New England. He had never resided abroad, was inexperienced in diplomatic negotiations, and did not speak French, all at the age of forty-two. John Adams was aware of the perils of crossing the Atlantic during the winter season, especially during times of conflict, and he was similarly concerned for the safety of his family, including his pregnant spouse, Abigail. Determined nonetheless to see his duty through, he made meticulous preparations for the voyage and on February 13, 1778, accompanied by his ten-year-old son, John Quincy, he departed from Braintree for Boston for his first encounter with the North Atlantic.

He faced his apprehensions of leaving behind his family and profession to embark on a hazardous voyage across the ocean.

In the middle of February 1778, John Adams bid farewell to Abigail and their family in Braintree, and together with his son John Quincy, departed for Boston to embark on the Continental frigate named Boston. Adams took on the arduous task of traveling to France in a diplomatic capacity, an endeavor that McCullough characterizes as one of the most demanding and strenuous periods in his life. John Adams understood the dangers of winter voyages across the Atlantic, and he strove to keep his spirits high as well as those of his family members. The peril of being captured at sea as a rebel, along with the terrifying possibilities of being a prisoner during the conflict, heightened the anxiety linked to the undertaking, particularly since he was also preoccupied with the state of his legal matters during his absence. In his youth, Adams frequently harbored dreams of embarking on adventures. While serving as a diplomat in France, he confided in Abigail about the obstacles he faced, reflecting on life's fleeting essence with the words, "What a dream is life!" From the rocking beginnings of life to its inevitable end! Amidst a myriad of small distractions and the grandeur of important events, it is the fleeting essence of our deepest desires and most pressing worries that is most striking.

Aware of Abigail's deep apprehension about the sea and feeling her absence acutely, he wrote to her nearly every day after leaving their residence. His solace, he conveyed to her, lay in their correspondence and the awareness that they were united in a shared endeavor. John Adams, who was fervently pursuing the path to American independence, confided his profound concerns about this course of action to her, driven by his commitment to honor his obligations. Adams encountered more dangers during his journeys than he had anticipated. On three separate instances, British vessels sighted them near Cape Cod and commenced pursuit, with the first chase persisting over a span of three days. A violent storm erupted, marked by intense lightning and thunder, ripping through the ship's primary support and nearly overturning the vessel. Adams described the crew's significant exertions, culminating in their successful stabilization and anchoring of the artillery piece after an intense struggle.

The American commission was characterized by discord and strife.

John Adams skillfully managed the intricate dynamics between Franklin and Arthur Lee.

John Adams arrived in the French capital on April 8, 1778, full of enthusiasm for starting his responsibilities and looking forward to working alongside Benjamin Franklin. Adams quickly grew disillusioned, as depicted by McCullough. Franklin engaged the circumstances amicably, but Adams soon realized a deep-seated animosity existed between Franklin and Arthur Lee, who, along with Adams, were members of the American delegation in France. Lee was of the opinion that Franklin's way of living was overly extravagant, that he was mismanaging funds, and that such behavior was harmful to Lee's own interests. Franklin considered Lee to be a person plagued by paranoia and a penchant for causing disturbances, motivated by envy. Adams had the challenging responsibility of navigating the complex interactions between the two individuals. The way Franklin handled government affairs often swung between apparent apathy and sheer ineptitude. Adams regarded Lee as excessively arrogant, noticeably deficient in courage, and extremely erratic in his actions.

Adams consistently placed the nation's well-being and his commitment to ethical standards at the forefront, despite the fact that the rivalry with his contemporaries frequently tested his personal health and the achievement of their shared objectives. He strove to maintain impartiality in his role as an intermediary, but the situation worsened, a point he communicated in his letters to Samuel Adams. Upon realizing that the Comte de Vergennes, the French Foreign Minister, had reservations about his motives and displayed a tendency to engage in diplomatic talks solely with his colleague Franklin, Adams encountered further obstacles.

Growing discontent with Franklin's diplomatic methods and behavior.

During his time in France, John Adams grew more and more disillusioned with Benjamin Franklin, noticing traits in Franklin's character that conflicted with the venerable image he once admired during their collaboration in America's legislative body. McCullough depicts Adams as frustrated by Franklin's sly and self-serving actions, his disregard for meticulousness, and his inattention to accuracy, while also recognizing Franklin's significant charm and the fondness he received from the French. Adams harbored worries that Franklin had allowed the Comte de Chaumont, who had amassed wealth by supplying the Continental Army, and Dr. Edward Bancroft, the commission's secretary whom Adams believed might be exploiting his role for personal financial gain, to wield excessive sway over the American commission's activities.

John Adams found his efforts in diplomacy progressively marginalized, which diminished their effectiveness. It could be argued that Adams's temperament was not well-suited to his role in diplomacy, where the primary responsibility is to promote his country's crucial interests abroad. Feeling disenchanted, Adams conveyed a growing desire to withdraw from his public responsibilities and a heightened value for seclusion in an open letter to James Warren, while he reassessed Franklin's significance and role. Regular exposure to the limelight often does little to foster the development of modesty as a valued trait.

John Adams expressed concerns about the influence that France might have and America's dependence on it.

As John Adams gained a deeper understanding of the political dynamics in Europe, especially within France, his concern grew that the United States, despite its professed independence, was overly reliant on France. John Adams frequently expressed his support for cautious engagement with France in his correspondence with fellow legislators and in private letters to his trusted associates. John Adams emphasized the significance of maintaining the bond with France, which he held in high regard, yet he advised against permitting France to have too much influence, advocating for the United States to independently craft its own views and strategies.

John Adams firmly opposed the concept of fixed treaties as proposed in the Plan of Treaties, favoring a policy that would preserve American independence, particularly in establishing friendly relations with Britain. He implored his peers, both abroad and in the legislative assembly, to reflect on the future advantages for the nation and to scrutinize French assistance carefully in light of potential conditions or demands, underscoring the importance for Americans to maintain the decorum befitting representatives of a sovereign nation.

John Adams had the responsibility of handling diplomatic duties in the Netherlands.

John Adams secured several diplomatic victories during his tenure in Amsterdam.

During the summer of 1780, feeling an urge to contribute more significantly to the American effort and sensing that Paris was not fully utilizing his talents, John Adams set out for Holland after receiving tentative consent from the Comte de Vergennes. The author's depiction reveals a person eager to disentangle himself from a progressively unproductive situation and seize an opportunity that aligned seamlessly with his distinctive temperament. Adams embarked on his journey without any official diplomatic or monetary power, and his peers in Paris viewed him as overly idealistic and questioned his judgment in his initial efforts. Adams' decisions aligned with the course of action that Congress had previously sanctioned. The Dutch were instrumental in the American fight for independence, providing essential financial, military, and logistical assistance.

Adams, reflecting on his early memories, compared the small but brave country that had achieved its freedom amid a vast conflict between England and France to a tiny being navigating between the massive strides of two battling giants, perceiving a similar pursuit of autonomy in the United States. The merchants and financiers of Amsterdam were some of the early backers of America, significantly influencing its economic domain. Adams was aware that partnering with a country that had, like the Netherlands, thrown off colonial domination and was considered among the most forward-thinking and liberal countries in Europe, would be beneficial in the fight for independence.

John Adams was instrumental in securing crucial financial backing from Dutch financiers and in gaining recognition for America's independent status.

John Adams persisted in his quest to gain recognition of American independence from the Dutch Republic and to acquire essential funding from Dutch financiers. The volume chronicles his notable accomplishments and was written by David McCullough. Despite encountering opposition from prominent Dutch leaders who favored their longstanding partnership with Great Britain, Adams secured his goals within a demanding two-year span, owing to his exceptional persistence and astute political insight, qualities that seemed to have been underestimated by the political circles of Paris. Adams, with strong support from his Dutch allies, ardently advocated for the American cause and offered his Dutch counterparts a thorough understanding of the determination, resources, and political ideals that defined the emerging nation. He authored articles, distributed pamphlets, delivered speeches, and cultivated connections with prominent figures within the Dutch community.

McCullough underscores the fact that the achievements of Adams are on par with the most pivotal triumphs of the American Revolution. He had embarked on his mission with no official authority, knowing no one, armed only with his own fervent understanding of the larger stake in the struggle and his country’s desperate need for support. Adams was aware that the perception in the Netherlands of America's potential to triumph in the war was greatly skewed. Adams, known for his resolute nature and consistent commitment, aimed to educate others regarding America, its wealth of resources, and its inhabitants.

John Adams demonstrated his resilience and an aptitude for making strategic decisions in matters pertaining to military diplomacy.

John Adams, faced with the reluctance of the Dutch to recognize American independence and their apprehension about inciting Great Britain, decided to undertake decisive actions that seemed to his peers to be a marked and reckless break from traditional diplomatic conventions. The story chronicles Adams' endeavors to secure Dutch backing for the American cause during the Revolutionary War. John Adams drafted a grave appeal for urgent action, which he submitted to the assembly known as "Their High Mightinesses, the States-General of the United Provinces of the Low Countries." This took place during a formal occasion in The Hague, surprising Baron van Lynden van Hemmen, the presiding officer of the assembly. His audacious approach was met with cautionary advice that it could result in derision and rejection, an approach he compared to "militia diplomacy," evoking the irregular warfare tactics employed by American revolutionary forces against British soldiers.

Adams' eloquent and convincing memorial led to a surge of backing in the Netherlands, which ultimately resulted in the official recognition of America's independence. More importantly, his decision to engage the public initiated a conversation that led to the formalization of diplomatic relations with the Dutch on October 8, 1782. The British authorities were greatly offended upon receiving the news. The victory signified a crucial turning point for advocates of Federalism within the United States, occurring when it seemed that the hostilities had reached a stalemate. John Adams showcased his extraordinary political acumen, courage, and willingness to personally stand behind his beliefs, attaining significant accomplishments where others failed.

The pact was subsequently referred to as the Treaty of Paris.

Collaborating with Jay and, albeit with initial reservations, Franklin, they successfully concluded the conflict known as the Revolutionary War.

After a series of unproductive and inconclusive talks in Paris during the fall of 1782, John Adams, who had recently returned from a visit to England, agreed, albeit hesitantly, to join the American delegation tasked with negotiating peace terms with British representatives. The book describes the prevalent environment of disagreement. Adams felt a deep sense of indignation when he discovered that the peace negotiations had ceased, particularly because he had been excluded from the conversations and the Continental Congress had mandated that its representatives adhere to the advice and decisions of the French Foreign Minister. Adams saw the act as a regrettable surrender of the country's autonomy, a move that contradicted the values they had fought for and clashed with his own beliefs about the country's honor. He swiftly communicated his decision to step down to Robert Livingston instead of following such directives. Upon learning that John Jay, the envoy from America in Spain who had made his way to Paris for the negotiations, was equally firm in his rejection of the French terms, Adams decided to endure what he considered yet another strenuous challenge.

The British negotiators found themselves at a disadvantage because of the collective diplomatic acumen of Franklin, Jay, and Adams. Adams was instrumental in securing the initial agreement in Paris on November 30, 1782, which was fully ratified on September 3, 1783, after a period of intensive discussions. The envoys, supported in the end by Franklin, chose to disregard their instructions from Congress, which had considerable consequences. The nascent country skillfully managed both foreign relations and armed confrontations. John Adams later reflected with satisfaction on his departure from the demanding role of a diplomat, and he was proud of his role in securing the lasting advantages of independence, even though he did not reap its immediate rewards.

Defending American interests, particularly fishing rights, with characteristic fervency

During the peace negotiations, John Adams navigated through a complex array of issues, including the delicate subjects of private debts, the rights of American Loyalists, and compensation for slaves appropriated by the British. Adams's fervor and expertise, which had been apparent in local legal proceedings and Continental Congress sessions, resurfaced during debates over fishing rights in the waters off Newfoundland. America's steadfast commitment to its esteemed codfish claim was something John Adams staunchly advocated for, acknowledging the deep dependence of New England on its fishing industry and the character and actions of those engaged in it.

John Adams's passionate advocacy for the fishing rights of America caught the British negotiators off guard. The Europeans expected that, following their concession of a vast expanse of territory to the emerging United States, a region spanning from the eastern seaboard to the Mississippi River, the Americans would demonstrate greater adaptability and gratitude, particularly regarding a disputed fishing zone. Adams insisted on acknowledging America's intrinsic entitlement to fish in disputed waters, refusing to express thanks to a vanquished opponent, and emphasized the nuanced difference that the British sought to establish. Adams, with steadfast determination, articulated his intentions to the British on that occasion. Is there a clearer example of privilege, distinguished listeners? Did he not bestow upon the residents of America identical rights as those residing on the far-off coasts of Newfoundland?

Guiding America along a path of independence while navigating complex relationships with France.

Adams, along with Jay, firmly stood their ground against congressional directives, ensuring that their decisions remained autonomous and not swayed by the wishes of the French Foreign Minister, the Comte de Vergennes, though Adams recognized the necessity of maintaining amicable ties with France. Adams' skillful navigation of intricate foreign relations is depicted, highlighting how he preserved the United States' composure and demonstrated keen political and diplomatic insight during a time fraught with tensions and worries involving the two major European powers of the era. Vergennes was furious that he and his government had been deliberately ignored in the rush to attain a peace settlement, and to many at court it seemed that Adams, given his perceived animosity toward France, was the instigator of what was being called an act of bad faith. Adams strongly refuted this claim. Congress rendered the choices available to him essentially ineffective. Adams took pride in his stance against directives he deemed dishonorable, believing they had undermined the honor of Congress.

Congress exclusively assigned John Adams the task of overseeing the negotiations for peace. The task was significantly complicated by the inconsistent messages emanating from Philadelphia, coupled with his understanding that Congress had the power to abruptly modify their goals, potentially transforming the situation entirely. Upon learning that Britain was willing to enter negotiations, acknowledging them as representatives of "the United States" instead of "the colonies," Adams joined in the widespread excitement. But he refused to let his hopes for peace ever overcome his distrust of the British, or the French, or his bedrock conviction that America must make its own way as an independent nation. John Adams made it clear to Richard Oswald, Britain's chief negotiator, that European countries would inevitably employ strategies to draw the United States into their real or imagined balances of power. We must avoid any interference at all costs.

Other Perspectives

• While John Adams played a significant role in diplomatic negotiations, it could be argued that his contributions were part of a larger collective effort and that other figures, such as Benjamin Franklin and John Jay, also played essential roles.
• Adams' assignment to France, despite his doubts and lack of experience, might be viewed as a testament to the limited pool of individuals available for such roles at the time, rather than a reflection of his unique suitability.
• His apprehensions about leaving his family and profession could be seen as a common concern among many individuals of the era who were called to serve their country, not unique to Adams.
• The skillful management of dynamics between Franklin and Arthur Lee could be interpreted as a necessary function of his role, and not necessarily indicative of exceptional diplomatic skill.
• The growing discontent with Franklin's diplomatic methods and behavior might be understood within the context of differing personalities and strategic approaches, rather than as a definitive assessment of Franklin's diplomacy.
• Concerns about France's influence and America's dependence could be countered by the argument that such reliance was a strategic necessity at the time, given the circumstances of the Revolutionary War.
• The diplomatic victories in the Netherlands, while significant, might be seen as part of a broader trend of European support for the American cause, influenced by multiple factors beyond Adams' direct control.
• The recognition of American independence by the Dutch could be attributed to shifting geopolitical dynamics and the influence of other American and European actors, not solely to Adams' efforts.
• The resilience and strategic decision-making attributed to Adams in military diplomacy could be seen as part of the broader strategic imperatives of the American Revolution, which required bold and unconventional approaches from many individuals.
• The Treaty of Paris and the successful conclusion of the Revolutionary War were the result of a complex negotiation process involving many parties, and while Adams played a role, it was a collective achievement.
• Defending American interests, such as fishing rights, could be critiqued as a stance that was necessary but not uniquely attributable to Adams, as it reflected broader New England interests.
• Guiding America towards independence while navigating complex relationships with France was a shared responsibility among all American diplomats, and their collective efforts, rather than any single individual's actions, shaped the outcome.

John Adams was deeply connected to his spouse, Abigail, through a shared life full of significant experiences.

Abigail's unwavering support from the home front

Confronting the tribulations associated with conflict, illness, and the oversight of both fiscal matters and familial responsibilities.

John Adams dedicated himself to his roles within the Continental Congress and his diplomatic assignments in France, Spain, and Holland, while Abigail oversaw their home in Massachusetts. Abigail Adams skillfully handled a variety of significant responsibilities. She not only managed the family's finances but also supervised their home, raised their four children, and courageously faced the dangers of war and a series of outbreaks that devastated the community. She faced these difficulties with unwavering strength, simultaneously creating a nurturing and intellectually enriching environment for her offspring and consistently offering her spouse steadfast advice and assistance.

Abigail's daily routine was filled with a range of challenging and strenuous activities. She awoke with the sunrise, attended to the needs of her home, and provided her children with an education surrounded by literary and poetic works. She bartered for scarce commodities, provided care for the sick, and oversaw their farming operations as rampant inflation wreaked havoc on the local economy. She and her children endured the severe conditions of war firsthand during the time when Boston was under British control, and while she attempted to maintain a semblance of normal life, she expressed her worries and sought comfort among her trusted network of friends and family, providing encouragement through her correspondence. John cherished the letters from her as they provided support, friendship, and astute advice during his management of personal matters in Philadelphia and throughout his subsequent tenure in Europe.

He passionately supported the cause of the patriots and was a strong proponent for women's rights.

Abigail Adams shared her husband's fervent commitment to the cause of independence. She regularly informed him about the political tendencies of their peers, urged him to remain true to his convictions, and inspired him to seize opportunities that would advance the concept of self-governance. Abigail, unlike her more conservative peers who were optimistic about reconciling with Britain, understood the dangers of tyrannical rule and advocated for a clear break. Abigail Adams possessed a more intense inclination for severing ties with Great Britain initially compared to John. Abigail Adams expressed her concern that the lofty expressions were not matched by corresponding deeds, and she counseled her husband to be more than merely a spectator.

Abigail persistently supported the cause of the American Revolution and boldly challenged conventional perspectives on the rights of women in her correspondence with John and discussions with individuals like Mercy Otis Warren. While acknowledging the conventional belief that separate roles and realms of influence are designated to each gender, she nevertheless challenged the inequities in the current societal structure, urging men to consider women when creating new legal codes. After the British left Boston in March 1776, she lightheartedly warned John that they were determined to incite rebellion unless they were guaranteed a voice and "representation" in the establishment of the government. John maintained his composure and exhibited a light-hearted demeanor even when prudence was advisable.

She engaged in vibrant correspondence with John, sharing her perspectives and ideas.

During the extended periods they spent separated, Abigail Adams maintained a spirited correspondence with John, sharing her insights, convictions, and observations on various subjects such as household matters, local political events, and news about the conflict, which McCullough describes as an outstanding example of literary articulation. Her letters provide a distinctive viewpoint on the progression of the American struggle for independence, highlighting her exceptional intelligence, insight, and fortitude from within the home front. John Adams impressed upon John Quincy the significance of his mother's correspondence, highlighting their importance as reading material.

Abigail's letters, written in clear handwriting despite her difficulties, expressed her boundless affection and high regard for John, while also showcasing her keen intelligence through candid assessments of her "good man." She frequently evaluated his choices, cautioned him against his tendency to judge others severely, and reprimanded him for not writing more often. In his correspondence, John Adams fondly spoke of her as his dearest partner, employing phrases such as "best, dearest, worthiest, wisest friend in the world," and the letters they shared reflect a connection that was remarkable for their era. Their marriage was a union of deep mutual respect, where they freely exchanged their innermost thoughts, emotions, and contemplations through times of triumphant successes and significant trials.

The cycle of parting and coming back together

Abigail endured the challenges that arose due to the long separations when John was fulfilling his diplomatic duties.

When John Adams accepted the Continental Congress's appointment to be commissioner to France, he and Abigail entered one of the longest and most difficult separations of their marriage. Between 1778 and 1788 John was absent from home for nearly seven years, leaving Abigail to endure the challenges of war, disease

Practical Tips

• You can strengthen family bonds by establishing a routine of writing heartfelt letters to loved ones, especially when separated by distance or circumstances. This practice not only maintains connections but also encourages the expression of affection and respect, much like the correspondence between Abigail and John Adams. For example, set aside time each week to write to a family member, sharing personal insights, offering support, or simply recounting daily life, which can be particularly meaningful in today's digital age.
• Develop financial literacy by taking an active role in household budgeting and investment decisions. By managing your own finances with skill and attention, you emulate Abigail's adeptness in financial matters. Start by creating a detailed budget, tracking expenses, and educating yourself on investment options, which can empower you to make informed decisions and potentially secure your family's financial future.
• Advocate for a cause you believe in by writing to your representatives or engaging in community discussions, drawing inspiration from Abigail's activism. This could involve identifying issues that resonate with you, such as education or women's rights, and using your voice to promote change. For instance, draft a letter to your local government official outlining your stance on a community issue, or participate in a town hall meeting to raise awareness and advocate for your cause.