Publisher's Synopsis
John Adams, the second President of the United States, was born on October 30, 1735, in Braintree, Massachusetts, a small, agrarian community then on the outskirts of Boston. His upbringing, though not opulent, provided a foundation for the intellectual and political development that would shape his extraordinary life. Understanding Adams's early years requires delving into the social, economic, and religious landscape of 18th-century Braintree and the specific circumstances of his family.
The Adams family, while not wealthy, enjoyed a comfortable position within Braintree's social hierarchy. John's father, John Adams Sr., was a farmer of modest means but also a respected deacon in the Congregational Church. This instilled in young John a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for religious principles, although his own faith would evolve throughout his life, often diverging from the strict Calvinism prevalent in his community. The family's relative stability provided John with an upbringing that valued education and intellectual curiosity, advantages not afforded to many in colonial society. This relatively secure environment, however, was still within the context of colonial life where self-reliance and the ability to adapt to the demands of daily existence were necessities. The experiences of weathering the storms of life, both literally and figuratively, deeply informed Adams's fortitude and resolve later in his life.
