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

Volume 3 of this 1850–6 compilation contains Adams' diaries 1777–96, essays, and political records from the 1760s.

John Adams (Author), Charles Francis Adams (Edited by)

9781108031592, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 May 2011

596 pages, 2 b/w illus.
21.6 x 14 x 3.4 cm, 0.75 kg

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 3 contains diaries and autobiographical writings from 1777 to 1796, several essays, and documents from the 1760s recording campaigns and debates that helped shape the Declaration of Independence. It describes Adams' missions to France and Britain, and also recounts his feelings on having to share, with Benjamin Franklin, a bedroom containing only one bed.

1. Autobiography continued
2. Diary
3. Notes of a debate in the Senate of the United States
4. Essays: i. On private revenge
ii. On self-delusion
iii. On private revenge
iv. Dissertation on the Canon and the Feudal law
v. Instructions of the town of Braintree to their representative, 1765
vi. The Earl of Clarendon to William Pym
vii. Governor Winthrop to Governor Bradford
viii. Instructions of the town of Boston to their representatives, 1768
ix. Instructions of the town of Boston to the representatives, 1769
x. On the independence of the judiciary: a controversy between W. Brattle and J. Adams, 1773
Appendix.

Subject Areas: History of the Americas [HBJK]