"Subjected to some of the most malicious attacks ever endured by a president, beset by personal disloyalty and political betrayal, suffering the loss of his mother, the near death of his wife, the death of a son, tormented by physical ailments, he had more than weathered the storm. His bedrock of integrity, his spirit of independence, his devotion to country, his marriage, his humor, and a great underlying love of life were all still very much intact." John Adams, page 567.
This just about says it all. I have completely changed my view of John Adams.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Not being a historian, I never had thought much of John Adams specifically, but in reading the book I was impressed his personal sacrifices to be a public servant. I was struck by the personal trials within his family like poor health, breast cancer, Nabby's disappointing marriage, alcoholism, and long separations from family. Like many people, I've idealized the country's leaders from that era and never imagined these things. The book was an eye-opener for me.
ReplyDeleteI also had never really thought much about John Adams. I am totally impressed by his immense personal sacrifices. It is a reminder for me that behind the public persona is a real person who suffers and loves and hurts like all the rest of us!
ReplyDeleteI have been talking about the book so much that I now have my husband, dad, and sister reading the book too. I guess I have started a family book club!
ReplyDeleteI agree Steve, I love John Adams. My daughter is a political science major and spent a whole semester learning about Adams. We have had some lively discussions about him and she is reading the book with my husband next in line.
ReplyDeleteMy opinion of JA also changed. How about opinions of Thomas Jefferson? I also have a different opinion of him after reading the book.
ReplyDelete