John Adams

This weekend, HBO will be kicking off its seven-part miniseries about John Adams. Even before becoming the second president of the United States of America, he was a highly influential force in helping to establish our new nation. In his personal life, he was devoted to learning and built an immense personal library during his lifetime. He also was a prolific letter writer and the letters between him and his wife Abigail have become famous as they provide readers with details about the work of the 1st and 2nd Continental Congresses (told from his perspective) and the trials and tribulation present in everyday life (told from her perspective). In addition, these letters also show a marriage between two people who considered themselves intellectual equals as John asks for advice on politics and legal matters. As a first lady, Abigail took an active role in her husband's presidency. The Adams legacy continued down through their descendants, with their eldest son, John Quincy, becoming the 6th president. Many personal artifacts can still be found at the Adams National Historical Park.