History Facts

John Adams was born October 30th, 1735 and died July 4th, 1826. He was one of the most important figures for the foundation of the United States of America. He served as the nation’s first vice president for the first two terms under George Washington, and was the nations 2nd president serving one term. His vice president, Thomas Jefferson, defeated him in the election and became the nation’s 3rd president. Ironically, Adams and Jefferson both died on the same date, the 50th anniversary of the declaration of independence.

John Adams was married to Abigail Smith in 1764. They had five children, and John Quincy Adams would one day be president of the United States as well. Adams was a prominent lawyer in his state of Massachusetts, going to Harvard College at the age of 16. Prior to the revolution, he defended Brittish soldiers after the Boston massacre.  He then pleaded with the colonies to form a declaration of independence from Britain. During the war, he headed to France and Holland for financial and military support.

After the revolution was won by the Americans, a new constitution and government was installed with the influence of Adams. Colonel George Washington was elected to be the first leader of the new country, with Adams receiving the second highest amount of votes, which landed him the VP slot.

Adams lived another 25 years after being defeated by Jefferson.  He outlived his wife and his daughter, but lived to see his son John Quincy become the 6th president of the United States.