Last Updated:

2024-02-09 01:20:19

John Adams

American Founding Father and 2nd President

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American Founding Father and 2nd President

John Adams was a key figure in the American Revolution, serving as the second president of the United States. He was known for his dedication to principles like the right to counsel and presumption of innocence. Adams played a crucial role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and negotiating peace with Great Britain. Despite facing criticism during his presidency, historians have positively evaluated his administration.

John Quincy Adams Samuel Adams James Madison American Revolution John F. Kennedy James Monroe Thomas Jefferson Thomas Paine William Henry Harrison George Washington

1735-10-30

Birth of John Adams

John Adams, the second President of the United States, was born on October 30, 1735. He played a crucial role in the American Revolution and the early formation of the United States.

1735-10-30

John Adams's Birth

John Adams, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the second President, was born on October 30, 1735.

1741

Start of John Adams' Education

In 1741, John Adams started his education at Dalme Belche’s house, where he studied arithmetic, reading, and religion.

1743-05

John Adams' father dies of influenza

On May 25, 1743, John Adams experienced the loss of his father due to influenza. This event had a profound impact on Adams' life and influenced his future endeavors.

1749

Joseph Marsh hired by John's father

John's father hired Joseph Marsh, who had a significant influence on John Adams, to prepare him for his admission exams to Harvard.

1751

John Adams enrolls at Harvard College

John Adams enrolls at Harvard College in Cambridge.

1755-11-18

Adams Begins Keeping Diary

Adams starts keeping a diary, which eventually spans four volumes and provides valuable insights into his life and the historical period.

1756-05-25

Adams' Father Dies

During an influenza epidemic, Adams' father passes away, leaving him a significant inheritance that includes property adjacent to the family home.

1756-08-21

Adams Starts Legal Studies

Adams commences his legal studies, leading to his admission to the Suffolk County Bar in Boston in 1758, marking a significant step in his career.

1758

John Adams Launches Legal Career in Boston

In 1758, John Adams began his legal career in Boston, facing several years of struggle in establishing his practice. He had only one client his first year and did not win his initial case before a jury until almost three years after opening his office.

1759

John Adams and Abigail Smith Meet

John Adams and Abigail Smith meet for the first time, laying the foundation for their future relationship and historical significance.

1760

Crown's Decision to Pay Superior Court Justices' Salary

In 1760, the Crown made the decision to pay the salary of the Superior Court Justices of the Colony, a significant shift from the previous practice where the provincial legislature covered the justices' salaries. This decision played a crucial role in bringing John back into political life.

1761-01

Adams and Quincy observe confrontation between American colonies and British Crown

In January 1761, John Adams and his friend Samuel Quincy witnessed the first confrontation between the American colonies and the British Crown, as a customs official applied for writs of assistance. This event was a significant moment for Adams, providing him with a deeper understanding of the relationship between the colonies and the motherland.

1764-10-25

John Adams marries Abigail Smith

On October 25, 1764, John Adams married Abigail Smith after a two-year courtship. This union played a significant role in shaping Adams' personal and political life.

1765-07-14

Birth of Abigail Amelia Adams

John and Abigail Adams welcome their first child, Abigail Amelia Adams, also known as 'Nabby'. This event marks an important personal milestone for the Adams family.

1765-10-25

Marriage of John Adams and Abigail Smith

John Adams and Abigail Smith are married in Weymouth, signifying the union of two influential figures in American history. Their partnership and contributions will have a lasting impact on the nation's founding.

1766

The Braintree Instructions adopted

The Braintree Instructions, written by John Adams, are adopted by forty towns in Massachusetts. The document asserts the unconstitutionality of taxation without representation.

1767-07-11

Birth of John Quincy Adams

John Quincy Adams, the future sixth President of the United States, is born on July 11. He would later become a prominent figure in American politics and diplomacy.

1768-01

Family Moves to Boston

The Adams family relocates to Boston, settling in a white house on Brattle Street. This marks a significant change in their residence and possibly their social and political environment.

1769

Adams defends John Hancock and sailors

In 1769, John Adams defended John Hancock in a smuggling case involving Madeira wine and three sailors accused of murdering a navy officer, contributing to his reputation as a skilled lawyer.

1770-02-04

Death of Daughter Susana

On February 4, 1770, John Adams experienced the tragic loss of his second daughter, Susana, who passed away at the age of 13 months.

1770-03-05

Boston Massacre

British soldiers open fire on a mob, killing five colonists. John Adams accepts to defend the soldiers, advocating for the right to counsel and a fair trial in a free country.

1770-05-29

Birth of Second Son, Charles

On May 29, 1770, John Adams welcomed the birth of his second son, Charles, marking a joyous moment for the Adams family.

1771

Adams' Health Strain

The strain of public life affects John Adams' health, leading the family to return to Braintree.

1772

Adams' Frequent Travels

John Adams travels frequently for his law practice, leading the family to return to Boston.

1773-01

John Adams published essays criticizing British ministry's decision

In January 1773, John Adams published seven essays in which he disagreed with the British ministry's decision. The essays were written in a legalistic manner and aroused little interest from the public.

1773-03

Observance of the Boston Massacre

In March 1773, John Adams was approached to speak at the observance of the Boston Massacre. Sam Adams and The Sons of Liberty were trying to establish the day of the Massacre as an annual memorial day.

1774-09-05

Adams attends First Continental Congress

John Adams is one of four Massachusetts delegates to attend the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia, which is called in response to the Intolerable Acts.

1775-01

Publication of 'Novanglus' essays

Adams publishes his 'Novanglus' essays, arguing that Parliament may regulate commerce in the colonies, but not impose taxes.

1775-05

Adams Reelected to Second Continental Congress

In May 1775, John Adams was reelected to the Second Continental Congress, which convened just after the outbreak of war with Britain at Lexington and Concord. This event further solidified his role in the push for independence.

1775-06

Adams Nominates George Washington as Commander

In June 1775, John Adams nominated George Washington of Virginia to be the commander of the newly created Continental army. This nomination played a crucial role in shaping the leadership of the revolutionary forces.

1776-07-04

Adams signs the Declaration of Independence

On July 4, 1776, John Adams signs the Declaration of Independence, which announced the thirteen American colonies' independence from the British Empire.

1777-07-11

Abigail gives birth to stillborn daughter

Abigail Adams gives birth to a stillborn daughter named Elizabeth on the 10th birthday of John Quincy Adams.

1778

John Adams sent to France for securing French aid

In 1778, John Adams was sent to France to help secure French aid for the American cause during the War of Independence.

1779-11

John Adams helps draft the Massachusetts Constitution of 1780

During a brief sojourn from July until November 1779, John Adams helped draft the Massachusetts Constitution of 1780.

1780-05-04

Foundation of Boston's American Academy of Arts and Sciences

Boston's American Academy of Arts and Sciences is founded by Adams as a forum for the promotion of democratic ideals and is incorporated.

1780-06-20

Congress Commissions Adams to Negotiate a Dutch Loan

Congress commissions Adams to negotiate a Dutch loan.

1780-10-25

Adoption of the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

The Constitution of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, written by Adams, is adopted, serving as the model for the U.S. Constitution and remaining in effect today.

1781-07

John Adams explores financial assistance in the Netherlands

In July 1781, before news of his commission reaches Adams, he travels to the Netherlands to explore the possibility of financial assistance. He remains in Amsterdam until July 1781, when he returns to Paris.

1782-06-11

Adams secures $2 million loan from Dutch bankers

On June 11, 1782, Adams secures a $2 million loan from Dutch bankers, thanks to his efforts.

1783-09-03

Signing of the Treaty of Paris

On September 3, 1783, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and John Jay signed the Treaty of Paris, which marked the official end of the War of Independence.

1784-07-21

Abigail and Nabby arrive in Europe

After a month-long Atlantic crossing, Abigail and Nabby arrive in Europe and reunite with John in London on August 7 after a five-year separation. They move to Auteuil, near Paris, where Adams is serving with Franklin and Jefferson on a commission to secure commercial treaties for the new United States.

1785-02-24

Adams becomes the first U.S. minister to Great Britain

Adams becomes the first U.S. minister to Great Britain on February 24, and in May the family moves to London, where they take up residence in the first American legation (embassy) in the coming months.

1785-06-01

Adams has his first private audience with King George III

On June 1, Adams has his first private audience with King George III. Three weeks later, Abigail and Nabby are presented to Queen Charlotte.

1786-06-12

Nabby's Marriage to Colonel William Smith

On June 12, 1786, Nabby, the daughter of John and Abigail Adams, marries Colonel William Smith, who was Adams' secretary, in London.

1787-05

Adams' Third Loan from the Dutch

In May 1787, John Adams travels to Amsterdam to obtain a third loan from the Dutch, demonstrating his diplomatic and financial efforts.

1788-02-20

Adams' Farewell Audience with King George

John Adams has a farewell audience with King George as he prepares to return to America to hold office in the new Republic.

1789-01-01

Election as Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts

John Adams was elected as the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts on this date.

1789-04-21

John Adams becomes the first vice president of the United States

John Adams served as the first vice president of the United States from 1789 to 1797.

1790-04

Adams moves to Richmond Hill, New York

In April 1790, John Adams relocates to Richmond Hill, New York.

1790-09

Adams establishes new residence at Bush Hill

Adams travels between New York and Philadelphia to set up a new residence at Bush Hill.

1790-11

Abigail joins John in Philadelphia

Abigail joins John in Philadelphia, but despises the city and leaves for Massachusetts after six months, vowing never to return.

1791-05

Adams appointed president of Boston’s Academy of Arts and Sciences

In May 1791, John Adams is appointed as the president of Boston’s Academy of Arts and Sciences.

1792-04

The Adams family returns to Braintree

In April 1792, the Adams family returns to Braintree, which was later incorporated as Quincy.

1793-12

Adams Elected as Vice President

In December 1793, John Adams was elected as the Vice President of the United States, serving alongside President George Washington for his second term. This event had a notable impact on the early political landscape of the United States.

1795-02

Adams travels to Quincy

Adams travels to Quincy in February and remains there until May. He will make a second trip to Quincy the following month, staying until November.

1796-05

Adams travels to Quincy and returns to Philadelphia

In May 1796, John Adams traveled to Quincy to spend the summer working on his farm. He then returned to Philadelphia in November to preside over the Senate. This period reflected Adams' commitment to both his personal life and political responsibilities.

1796-12

Adams narrowly defeats Jefferson in the presidential election

In December 1796, John Adams narrowly defeated Thomas Jefferson in the presidential election. The election outcome led to bitter divisions between their respective parties, particularly regarding relations with France.

1797

John Adams Inaugurated as 2nd President

In 1797, John Adams was inaugurated as the second President of the United States, succeeding George Washington. His presidency faced challenges such as foreign relations and political divisions.

1797-02-08

Electoral Votes Tabulated in Congress

On February 8, 1797, the electoral votes were tabulated in Congress, and John Adams, the Federalist nominee, received 71 votes, becoming the President. Thomas Jefferson, the Democratic-Republican nominee, received 68 votes and became the Vice-President.

1797-03-04

Inauguration of John Adams as President

John Adams was inaugurated as the second President of the United States on March 4, 1797.

1797-03-25

Retaining Washington’s Cabinet

Adams retains Washington’s Cabinet, a decision he comes to regret because of their relationship to Alexander Hamilton. Hamilton and Adams contested for leadership of the Federalists.

1797-05-15

John Adams Calls for Special Session

In May 1797, John Adams called for a special session, indicating a significant event during his presidency.

1797-05-16

Address to Joint Session of Congress

Adams addresses a Joint Session of Congress on current conflicts with France and the difficulty of defending the long U.S. coastline and commercial shipping. The speech was referred to as addressing the 'state of the Union' in a reply from the Senate.

1797-05-19

John Adams Negotiates with France

On May 19, 1797, John Adams engaged in negotiations with France, marking a crucial diplomatic event during his presidency.

1797-06-01

John Adams appoints John Quincy minister to Prussia

On June 1, 1797, John Adams appointed his son, John Quincy Adams, as the minister to Prussia. This decision raised concerns about nepotism, as John Quincy hesitated before accepting the position due to fears of being charged with nepotism.

1797-06-05

Nomination of Peace Commission to Negotiate with France

President Adams nominates Pinckney, Dana, and Marshall as a peace commission to negotiate with France. The Senate confirms the three officials on June 5, 1797.

1797-06-12

Formation of Mississippi Territory

President Adams sends a message to Congress recommending the formation of a government in the district of the Natchez, which later became known as the Mississippi Territory.

1797-06-20

Nomination of Gerry to Peace Commission

After Dana declined due to health reasons, President Adams nominates Gerry to replace him in the peace commission on June 20, 1797. The Senate concurs with the nomination on June 22, 1797.

1797-06-24

Authorization to Raise Militia

President Adams is authorized by Congress to raise a militia of 80,000 men for defensive purposes in case of war with France.

1797-07-22

Authorization of Militia Force

An act was signed authorizing the President to require state executives to organize, arm, and equip a militia force of 80,000, to be ready to march at a moment's warning.

1797-10-18

XYZ Affair

The three man American peace commission is received coolly and then asked to pay a bribe in order to speak with French Foreign Minister Charles Maurice Talleyrand. This episode becomes known as the 'XYZ Affair.'

1797-12-04

Retirement as Governor

John Adams retired from his position as Governor on December 4, 1797.

1798-01-08

The Eleventh Amendment

President Adams declares the Eleventh Amendment to the Constitution of the United States in full force. It specifies that federal courts should not have jurisdiction over litigation between individuals from one state against individuals from another state.

1798-02-05

Appointment of commissioners for treaty negotiation

John Adams appoints commissioners to negotiate a treaty between the United States and the Cherokee Indians.

1798-03-05

Special Message to Congress

John Adams relays a report of an attack by a French ship on an English ship at Charleston Harbor, emphasizing the necessity of enabling the Executive authority of the Government to take measures for protecting the citizens.

1798-04-03

XYZ Affair exposed

The XYZ Affair, which was a diplomatic incident between France and the United States, is exposed. It had significant implications for the relationship between the two countries and influenced the undeclared naval war with France.

1798-04-07

Establishment of Government in Mississippi Territory

In response to the Spanish ceding the territory to the United States in the 1795 Treaty of San Lorenzo, President Adams establishes the government for the new Mississippi Territory. Winthrop Sergeant is appointed as governor and Natchez is chosen as its first capital.

1798-05-03

Appointment of Benjamin Stoddert as Secretary of the Navy

President Adams appoints Benjamin Stoddert as the first secretary of the Navy for the newly formed Department of the Navy, established in preparation for potential war with France.

1798-06-18

Congress Empowers Adams to Enlist 10,000 Men

Congress grants John Adams the authority to recruit 10,000 men in the event of war or invasion. Additionally, Adams is given the power to direct ship commanders to seize armed French vessels attacking American merchant ships along the coast.

1798-06-25

Passing the Alien Act

The Alien Act was passed by Congress, giving President Adams the authority to expel any alien he considered a potential threat to the safety of the United States.

1798-07-06

Alien Enemies Act

The Alien Enemies Act, part of the Alien and Sedition Acts, was passed by Congress to allow for the capture and deportation of male aliens who were citizens or subjects of a hostile nation.

1798-07-09

Creation of Administrative Structure for Direct Tax

An administrative structure was created to list and assess property for the direct tax imposed on dwellings, land, and slaves in the United States. This tax was intended to raise funds for a potential war with France, leading to widespread opposition.

1798-07-14

Adams signs Alien and Sedition Acts

On July 14, 1798, John Adams signed into law the four-part Alien and Sedition Acts, which included the Naturalization and Alien Acts curbing immigrants' rights and the Sedition Act restricting freedom of speech and press, making offenses punishable by fines and imprisonment.

1798-09-12

Arrest of Benjamin Franklin Bache

Benjamin Franklin Bache, the grandson of Benjamin Franklin, is arrested under the Sedition Act for 'libeling' President Adams.

1798-11-16

Kentucky Resolutions

The Kentucky Resolutions are adopted, asserting the state's rights to nullify federal laws that were deemed unconstitutional.

1799-02-06

Third Annual Address to Congress

President Adams reports that the rebellion in Pennsylvania has been contained and expresses the need for the laws to be executed while guarding individuals from oppression. He also advises the removal of the National government to Washington, which is now practicable.

1799-02-18

Adams appoints second peace delegation to France

Against the wishes of his Federalist Party, on February 18, 1799, John Adams appointed a second peace delegation to France, a decision that went against the stance of his own party.

1799-02-27

Nomination of Envoys to France

William Vans Murray, Oliver Ellsworth, and Patrick Henry are nominated as envoys to France. The Senate confirms the nominations on February 27, 1799. Patrick Henry later declines and is replaced by William Richardson Davie in June 1799. These envoys play a role in ending the Quasi-War.

1799-03-12

Proclamation 9 to End Fries Rebellion

Proclamation 9 is issued to call forth military force to end the armed rebellion known as the 'Fries Rebellion' by Pennsylvania Dutch farmers. The rebellion was in opposition to a new federal property tax, and violence erupted on March 6, 1799 in Bucks County.

1799-03-30

New Envoys to France

President Adams appoints Van Murray, Chief Justice Oliver Ellsworth, and North Carolina Governor Davie as U.S. envoys to France, following assurances from the French government that they will be received with the respect owed to their nation.

1799-07-11

Treaty of Amity between United States and Prussia

President Adams refers to Congress a “Treaty of Amity” signed between the United States and Prussia on July 11, 1799.

1799-10-28

Conviction of Thomas Cooper

Thomas Cooper is convicted of libel under the Alien and Sedition Acts for publishing a broadside critical of Adams.

1800-01-10

Thomas Cooper convicted of libel

Thomas Cooper, a resident of Northumberland, Pennsylvania, is tried and convicted of libel against President Adams and his administration under the newly adopted Sedition Act.

1800-05-13

Division of Northwest Territory

An act was signed to divide the territory northwest of the Ohio River, creating a new part called the Indiana Territory.

1800-05-21

Location of Next Congress Session

An act was signed specifying that the next session of Congress would be held in the City of Washington in the District of Columbia, starting on November 17, 1800.

1800-09-30

Treaty of Morfontaine

The Treaty of Morfontaine was signed, ending the hostilities between the United States and France during the Quasi War.

1800-11-01

John Adams becomes the first president to live in the President's House in Washington, D.C.

John Adams makes history by being the first president to reside in the newly completed President's House in Washington, D.C.

1800-11-30

Death of Charles Adams

John Adams' son, Charles Adams, passed away at the age of 30 due to liver cancer.

1801-02-17

Signing of the Judiciary Act of 1801

The outgoing Federalist Congress passed the Judiciary Act of 1801, which reorganized the federal judiciary. This act was signed by John Adams, marking a significant reorganization of the judiciary system.

1801-03-03

The Sedition Act expires

The controversial Sedition Act, which had been a source of much debate, comes to an end as it expires.

1801-03-04

John Adams departs Washington before Jefferson's inauguration

Just hours before Thomas Jefferson is sworn in as president, John Adams leaves Washington to return home, with Abigail having preceded him in February.

1802

Adams starts writing Autobiography

In 1802, John Adams began writing his autobiography, providing a firsthand account of his life and experiences.

1805-05-16

Marriage of Thomas Adams and Ann Harrod

Thomas Adams marries Ann Harrod on May 16th.

1811-10-08

Nabby's Mastectomy

Nabby undergoes a mastectomy for breast cancer on October 8th. The rare operation, performed without anesthesia, initially appears successful.

1812-01

Correspondence Initiated Between Adams and Jefferson

After 11 years, Adams initiates correspondence with Jefferson; it will continue until their deaths.

1813

Nabby dies of breast cancer

Nabby, the daughter of John Adams, dies at the age of 48 due to breast cancer.

1818-10-28

Abigail Adams dies of typhoid fever

Abigail Adams, the wife of John Adams, passes away at the age of 73 due to typhoid fever in Quincy.

1826-02-16

Duel between John Randolph and Clay

Senator John Randolph objects to the Adams message, leading to a duel between Randolph and Clay. Neither man was wounded.

1826-07-04

Death of John Adams

John Adams died on the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, 4 July 1826. His legacy as a founding father and his contributions to the early United States continue to be remembered and celebrated.

1829

Nomination of John J. Crittenden as Associate Justice

John J. Crittenden was nominated as Associate Justice in 1829, replacing Trimble who had died in August. However, Jackson's allies in the Senate blocked the confirmation in order to give the appointment to Jackson.

End of the Timeline
John Adams