The Works of John Adams, Second President of the United States

Abstract

John Adams (1735–1826) was a highly educated and enlightened lawyer who became a central figure in the American Revolution. As a political theorist he influenced the constitutions of the former British colonies in America, and he is regarded, with Jefferson, as the father of the United States Constitution. First published in 1850–6, this collection brings together Adams' major writings. Given their influence not only on the United States, but also on other republics, Adams' works rank among the most important political writings of their time. Volume 6 contains the final part of Defence of the Constitutions, together with essays and correspondence on theories of government, including Discourses on Davila, written while Adams was Vice-President to George Washington. Adams proposes that a hereditary monarchy could act as a suitable balance in some societies. However, such 'reactionary' theories contributed to the breakdown of his friendship with Jefferson.