John Adams was a Founding Father who served as the first Vice President and second President of the United States. A Massachusetts lawyer, Adams gained fame defending British soldiers after the Boston Massacre—demonstrating his commitment to rule of law even when unpopular. He was instrumental in pushing for independence and securing diplomatic recognition from European powers.
Adams's political philosophy was more conservative than Jefferson's democratic idealism. He warned against unchecked democracy, advocated for balanced government with strong executive, and defended social hierarchy as natural. His 'Defence of the Constitutions' analyzed republican governments throughout history.
His presidency (1797-1801) was marked by the Quasi-War with France and the controversial Alien and Sedition Acts. Defeated by Jefferson in 1800, Adams retired to Quincy, where he and Jefferson renewed their friendship through correspondence. Both died on July 4, 1826—the 50th anniversary of the Declaration. Adams's last words reportedly were 'Thomas Jefferson survives' (Jefferson had died hours earlier).