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Summary: This book renewed my commitment to the founding principles
Review: I have always been interested in U.S. history, the writings and opinions of the founders, and etc.. It has always been an impersonal subject though, and far more an academic pursuit than an entertaining one. That all changed when I read McCullough's John Adams.The book brings to life one of the most intriguing figures in history, and makes not only Adams, but all of American History seem alive, real, and relevant. McCullough does an excellent job of conveying to the reader the preferences and dislikes that Adams felt for his contemporaries, while at the same time not encouraging the reader to accept Adams' perceptions as fact. McCullough does, however, make a heartfelt and compelling argument for Adams as the preeminent founder. Since reading John Adams, I have expanded my library to include the writings of many of the founders, and the writings of those who influenced them. No student of history should pass up the opportunity to be educated and entertained by reading Adams, and in reality, it should be required reading for Advanced Placement U.S. History.
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Summary: Founding Father
Review: David McCullough's excellent biography of the life of John Adams is great reading for those interseted in US history. The books traces Adam's political ascent from revolutionary, to diplomat, to the presidency, and then his life as a statesman and family man after his term was up. The key to the book is that the author illuminates Adams as a person, as well as a political figure. His relationships with his wife, children and Thomas Jefferson are strong currents through the book, and show his compassion and humanism. I had been aware of Adams from history books, but I was quite taken with the portrait painted by this book. Adams like other American founding fathers, risked everything he had in life(including life itself) and devoted himself fully to a dream of independance and freedom for the original colonies. Inspirational.
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Summary: A compelling read
Review: David McCullough was blessed in his choice of subject. The Adams family's position at the center of the new America spanned a period of over 60 years, and their voluminous, literate and perceptive correspondence makes possible a recreation of a time and place with a level of personal detail that would not be possible today. The richness of detail and candor expressed in the letters throughout is remarkable, and it lead me to reflect on our current practice of considering all politician's papers subject to public scrutiny. In an era where a letter to a close friend or a diary can be suject to subpoena, no one in his or her right mind would write letters as Adams and others of his time did. What a loss for historians of the future! The book presents lots of food for thought; some of the highlights for me were the following: McCullough's description of the founding of the US describes in brilliant detail the almost overwhelming odds against the success of the new country. There was no model in the world at the time for what was ultimately achieved as a form of government. England of course had a representative Parliament but the power of the monarch was still very strong. Adams' and the other founders' deep knowledge of the classic political theorists was critical to developing the Constitution in the form it exists to this day. The founders were a pretty colorful group. The portrait of Franklin was amazing; the myth is of a scientist and dispenser of homespun wisdom; the reality was a man who loved the luxury of the French court, fit brilliantly into the decadent French society of the time; a charmer with less substance than meets the eye. Jefferson was also an extremely complex character. He too loved France, and spent his whole life on the verge of financial ruin due to extravagant purchases of furniture, books and art. Jefferson's personal life was complex--he was apparently devoted to his wife about whom little is known, and who died early. Thereafter the issue of Sally Hemings and others is murky, but one would expect that he did not live as a celibate for the rest of his long life. Portraits of Hamilton, Burr and others are also fascinating. The lives of these men illustrates for me at least that one can separate the personal and the political--these men were brilliant in many ways, and made outstanding contributions to their country, but in this day and age they'd be run out of town due to the issues in their personal lives. Adams personally was blessed with an extraordinary marriage. Abigail was intelligent, perceptive, highly educated, and a woman of strong opinions. Throughout long separations their relationship was kept alive through their remarkable letters. JQAdams was also a remarkable character--it is as if his father was unconsciously preparing him from an early age for the Presidency as well. One is struck by how parochial the Founders were as a group. The Adams, father and son, were a notable exception due to their long service in Europe. The details of everyday life are not ignored by McCullough. Extremely serious illness was a fact of life--malaria, typhus, yellow fever killed off hundreds every year. The Adams' were a pretty hardy group, but even they were often laid low by mysterious illnesses for long periods of time. The elements were a constant challenge--blizzards, heat waves, frigid winters had an impact on life that is hard to imagine today. Although not a focus, the issue of slavery comes up often in the book. From the very beginning it was an intensely divisive issue, and threatened the formation of a "united" states. Jefferson's views on slavery sharply conflicted with his actions, as did many others. It is easy to see how this problem erupted into civil war. One odd omisssion in the book is the lack of any mention whatsoever of the Bill of Rights, which itself was a contentious issue and as we all know was not part of the original constitution. Jefferson's work on religious freedom in Virginia is mentioned, but the big picture at the federal level ignored. Was Adams a participant in that debate? Hard to imagine that he wasn't unless his assignments in Europe removed him from the scene. Nevertheless, he must have had views on the issue of civil liberties, expressed in his letters, but the book leaves us in the dark on this point. Be prepared to make a commitment of time if you read this book. It is long and dense, but highly readable with many light moments. It's well worth your while.
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Summary: (not so) Ruthless Review
Review: Courtesy of ruthlessreviews.com At last we have a popular, critically praised book that will, if there is any justice in the universe of American history, rehabilitate the image of one of our greatest individuals. The author has not only written a book that reads, pleasurably, like a novel, but he has been slavishly faithful to the written record of Adams himself, ensuring an account that does not speculate but presents Adams as he was and should be remembered. Because Adams wrote more letters and diary entries than any of the Founders, we are able to penetrate the mind and soul of this complex character. Whereas Jefferson never betrayed an inner confidence and Washington left little of a private nature, Adams chronicled his life entire; from his doubts, passions, journeys at home and abroad, philosophical musings, political rivalries, and declarations of love for his equally brilliant wife, Abigail. As such, we can fully understand the Revolutionary period and the early crises of the republic because Adams himself gave a blow-by-blow account. Most instructive, however, was the manner in which the author placed Adams at the top of the list in terms of his contributions to Independence. Not only was he there at the creation, but he was instrumental in the selection of Washington to head the army and Jefferson to construct the Declaration of Independence. As the author states, had his contributions been limited to those two areas, he would be worth remembering as a great man. However, Adams did much more to secure the lasting independence of our nation. He traveled abroad to secure much-needed loans and recognition from the French and Dutch, without whose help the Revolution would have no doubt failed. In his journey to France, he went with his son John Quincy without knowing the language, having an official title, or even directed purpose. As a man adrift in a foreign land, he worked tirelessly to achieve what might have seemed impossible at the beginning of such an ambiguous mission. As a matter of personal interest, I was struck by Adams' written Constitution for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In that influential and presently ignored document, Adams gave us a blueprint of what our nation was to become: the separation of powers, and independent judiciary, and a strong executive. Moreover, he declared, much to the joy of progressives everywhere, that the federal government is duty-bound to promote education and intellectual pursuits. In an age of increasing privatization of every aspect of our lives, such idealism is both refreshing and bold. The author is outstanding as well in the documentation of Adams as Vice President and President. Consequently, we come to see how Adams' brave stance on the imminent war with France not only saved our young country from ruin, but gave the United States an opportunity to strengthen its navy and armed forces. Adams took this position at the risk of his political future and reputation. Still, it was the right thing to do and he never wavered. Without giving away too much, let it be said that this book is, without question, a modern masterpiece of historical biography. I came to know Adams and the times in which he lived in a way I never thought possible. I now have the greatest respect for John Adams, a statesman deserving of the highest commemoration in our culture. One day, perhaps, there will be the physical evidence in our landscape to cherish this wonderful man from Massachusetts. - ruthlessreviews.com
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Summary: John Adams: Unsung American Hero Revealed
Review: Without re-hashing the three hundred and some odd reviews already written, I am compelled after reading and re-reading this titanic and magnificent biography to write that any person wishing to avail themselves of America's second president must read this book. America's often-overlooked and criticized second president emerges here in full and beautiful form. McCullough does justice to Adams with his sweeping effort and sends the dust of history flying with this lively, engrossing biography of a man I once thought I understood. The times in which Adams lived and his contributions to the infant America at home and abroad against the backdrop of some of the most exciting, thrilling events in America's history are nothing short of amazing for those who do not know John Adams (well, who does? --he died in 1826 ;-) Throughout his work, McCullough shows the reader what can arguably be considered the finest rendering of this humble hero, the dilligent if testy New Englander who worked so hard toward the goals he believed in and fulfilled his duties to the best of his abilities given with what he had to work with: George Washington was a tough act follow. It is, to my mind, impossible to come away from this book without a great respect and admiration for Adams, a man who, in all seasons (and not always with success or the greatest circumspection) tried so hard to do what he thought was right. McCullough's inclusion of the correspondence between Adams and Jefferson in their later years and his presentation of the circumstances surrounding that correspondence, the issues raised, show Adams to be every bit the luminary and sage Jefferson was, if in his own contentious way. This is, among other things, the story of an honest man who was not afraid to speak his mind and, perhaps most importantly, was honest with himself. Here's to John Adams, rendered by McCullough: an honest man working hard in extraordinary times! Would that there were more men like Adams and his contemporaries today.
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Summary: John and Abigail-The truest of American Patriots and Heros.
Review: Being an avid reader and small time collector of books like Mr. Adams and Mr. Jefferson myself, I have had a copy of John Adams and the American Revolution by Catherine Drinker Bowen 1950, which covered John Adams in his youth, and up to and through the Revolution, on my shelf for years. I had not taken the time to pull it down in all these years until I recently ordered and finished John Adams in this earliest incantation by David McCollough. Mr. McCollough has done a superb job and I have to commend him. Immediately upon finishing his book on the later part of Mr. Adams life, I pulled that old copy down and began digesting it as well, to learn about his early life and developmental influences. After finishing this newest gripping yet lengthy book, one, which seemed to call me back each time I put it down, to continue on. I had to take a few days to contemplate the wealth of knowledge, information and wisdom contained therein. The honor and respect the author has given to Mr. and Mrs. Adams is simply superb. John Adams was one of the greatest men to live and Abigail perhaps the greatest founding woman. As much as I love doing these reviews I felt completely incompetent to do justice to this wonderful work of art. I cannot give the author enough credit for a job well done. I have to say that Mr. Adams is perhaps the most relevant and amazing patriot of all time. I could not help but try to put to poetry how I felt, although badly I suppose, upon finishing this book. Here goes..."I believe that we shall never see...a patriot quite as great as he." Ha, ha. I have to say that Mr. Jefferson was a disappointment in this book. But that may be simply because the author did a wonderful job of pulling you into life with Mr. Adams. His struggles, accomplishments, sacrifices and tribulations were marvelously portrayed. Much like a well-trained or very talented actor can do on the big screen when given that special part. Like Bruce Willis in the Die Hard Series, he was made for the part. I am sure that if a book as comprehensive as this one was written on Jefferson, Madison, Washington and a few others they would relieve some of the distress or tarnishing of a few reputations created by this book. In any case John Adams and Abigail Adams have moved to the head of the line of my American Heroes chart. Not simply because of their honesty, or his man-on-the-street character, but because of their dedication to God, country, community, family, each other and self, which is inculcated and backed up in these pages. Their willingness to sacrifice nearly every hope for peace, joy, contentment and togetherness for their country and something greater than themselves is just overwhelming. I dare say no other surviving founders gave so much for so long as did the Honorable John Adams. None have impressed me with such inspiration, fortitude, long suffering and loyalty as these two American icons. If only our children and the Supreme Court Justices for that matter, cared as much about knowing them and honorable/virtuous citizenship laws as they do about Michael Jackson and Madonna our nation would not be hanging on the edge of social, moral, political and judicial chaos and despair. I will never again look as fondly as I have in the past on Thomas Jefferson who appears to come off as an insufferable jerk in this book. If only half of what is written here is true, I may still cheer him for his profound intellect in political philosophical matters and rhetorical writing about what constitutes good government. But in his personal dealings with others, his character and his loyalty to family and friends, I will always hereafter find him a scoundrel, a failure and a back-stabber. John and Abigail Adams should be heralded before all others as the most patriotic, sacrificing and loyal Americans ever to grace our little part of the world, and Mr. McCullough brings that experience to life for us. Their unequaled sacrifice cannot be duplicated by any since, past or present. They should be the leading example of patriotism, citizenship, statesmanship and service to others, for each and every person entering into politics. A wonderful book, a great read and an inspiring legacy. Good job sir...
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Summary: Reads like a novel
Review: I picked up John Adams because I had previously read McCullough's Truman. While McCullough went into less depth into the personal character of Adams than he did into Truman, there stills remains a great deal of insight to satisfy the curiosity of most readers of biographical literature. For those readers who are more inclined to read fiction than deep historical literature, this book will be a decided pleasure. I found it enjoyable throughout.
McCullough's book is as much about the times of John Adams than about the person himself. He describes the life and character of Jefferson, Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Abigail Adams, John Quincy Adams, Aaron Burr among others. Unfortunately, McCullough seems compelled to dispel ideas about these men and women within this brief 600+ page book. To do so he must gloss over some events and people that the reader would desire to read about in greater depth.
If you are looking for an enjoyable look at the historical characters who effected the founding of our country, this book is for you. If you want a deep personal biography you may want to look elsewhere.
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Summary: JOHN ADAMS
Review: A magnificent piece of work. Engrossing, entertaining, enlightening. The perfect time to read this novel during the season of the Declaration of Independence. An education into the life of one of our nation's most important and productive leaders. Each page is a delight and wonderful learning experience. I am gaining a more complete appreciation of the founding fathers of this great country who delivered freedom to us all. I love this book and savor each reading moment. GOD BLESS AMERICA; GOD BLESS THIS GREAT LAND OF PLENTY; GOD BLESS THOSE WHO GAVE SO MUCH OF THEMSELVES TO BRING ABOUT OUR FREEDOM IN THE GREATEST LAND ON EARTH.
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Summary: McCullough's John Adams, Essential Reading for All Americans
Review: McCullough takes us back to Adams' time with vivid depictions seldom found in any writer's work. We can feel the feelings of the protagonists, see what they see of late 18th and early 19th American and European societies. We hear the arguments of the nation's founders over issues debated to this day reminding us of the unique experiment America is. Through John and Abigail Adams' correspondence and their diaries, along with other contemporary sources, we learn of the greatest public love affair in this nation's history, the love of John and Abigail Adams for each other. AND we find how important she was in his life; she was his best friend, mother of his children and equally his confidant and backbone in times of doubt. The book is fascinating, provocative, informative and moving. It is one of the best books of any kind I have read in my entire life. This is without question an historical work (pun intended)which should be added to EVERY American Library
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Summary: McCullough is a True Master of Words!
Review: This is a must read for every American. Thanks to Mr. McCullough I now understand the principles of our founders as they were meant to be understood. Every page reads like a novel, and the book is so well organized that it is difficult to put down. It is a tedious book to read, and in this case that is one of its strengths. I found myself re-reading many sections several times before moving on. I was intrigued by the manner in which the two party system developed, and amazed at how none of the early presidents campaigned for themselves at all. I learned so much not only about the principles of our founding fathers, but about how our country's politcal system and branches of government were created. President Adams and the myriad of multiple relationships he had with so many important people constantly peaked my interest. And certainly, aside form his incredible family bonds and high moral ethics throughout his life, nothing compared to the description of his relationship with Thomas Jefferson. I now look forward to reading other books on the same era.
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