John Adams

John Adams was the second president of United States. He also played a key role in the American revolution. His son would eventually become president. Yet, his accomplishments have been largely forgotten. Washington and Jefferson (the first and third presidents) both have memorials in Washington, D.C. Even Madison (#4) has a building. Adams does not.

He was more of an intellectual president than the others. He prized honesty and being true to his principles above political expediency. Sometimes, this would get him in trouble. He spent a long time arguing about titles, and is known for signing the "Alien and Sedition" act as part of the quasi-war with France. His behind-the-scenes accomplishments do not tend to get as much attention. He helped for the measured advocacy of the American revolution. He was for equality of opportunity for all men and did not own slaves. He served as a representative with France and the Netherlands helping to gain international support for the nascent state. He would later broker a peace with France (that helped enable to Louisiana Purchase.)

Adams left behind a huge volume of personal correspondence. He wrote regularly to his wife and to many friends. He sought to repair his relationship with Jefferson and they ended life on good terms (with both dying on the Fourth of July.)