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

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.