John Adams
(1735–1826)

John Adams

Anecdote...

Although failing fast, Adams was determined to survive until the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence—July 4, 1826. At dawn on that day he was awakened by his servant, who asked if he knew what day it was. He replied, "Oh, yes, it is the glorious fourth of July. God bless it. God bless you all." He then slipped into a coma. In the afternoon he recovered consciousness briefly to murmur: "Thomas Jefferson lives." These were his last words. Unknown to him, Thomas Jefferson had died that same day.


Of Note...


John Trumbull's (June 6, 1756 – November 10, 1843) famous painting is usually incorrectly identified as a depiction of the signing of the Declaration. What the painting actually depicts is the five-man drafting committee presenting their work to the Congress. Trumbull's painting can also be found on the back of the U.S. $2 bill.John Trumbull's famous painting (left) depicts the five-man drafting committee presenting their work to the Congress. The five prominent figures depicted are, from left to right, John Adams, Roger Sherman, Robert Livingston, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin.


Biographical Note...

U.S. statesman and second President of the U.S. (1797-1801). He played a major part in winning European support for the cause of American independence. He served as Washington's vice president and succeeded him as president.


More Information...

READ MORE about John Adams in the White House archives.