John Adams: Architect of Freedom (1735-1826)

John Adams could be, and was on occasion, cantankerous, stubborn, tactless, even rude. He was also prone to vanity and self-pity, and sensitive to what he perceived as slights, or attacks on his reputation or character. He also had a lust for fame, as did many involved in the founding of this nation.

But if fame was the spur, it was also the driving force be-hind Adams’ enormous energy, energy guided by a strong sense of honor and duty that was built into his character and stayed with him h...