John Adams (2008)

The American television miniseries John Adams (2008) follows the political journey of U.S. president John Adams and his pivotal role in the establishment of the United States. Directed by Tom Hooper and starring Paul Giamatti as Adams, the series was adapted from David McCullough’s 2001 book of the same name by Kirk Ellis. Over seven episodes, HBO brought to life both the biopic of Adams and the first 50 years of America’s history. Garnering widespread critical acclaim, John Adams received numerous prestigious awards, including four Golden Globes and a record-breaking thirteen Emmy wins.

Part I: Join or Die (1770–1774). In 1770, John Adams, a reputable attorney in his mid-30s, was known for his unwavering commitment to the law and fairness. Following the Boston Massacre, Captain Thomas Preston, the soldiers’ commander, sought out Adams as their defense counsel. Despite initial hesitation, Adams agreed to take on the case, realizing it may cause tension with his community and acquaintances. His decision stemmed from his belief in offering everyone a fair trial and upholding the principles of justice. Meanwhile, Samuel Adams, John’s cousin and a prominent colonist, strongly opposed the Intolerable Acts imposed by the British Parliament. As an executive member of the Sons of Liberty organization dedicated to resisting these acts, he held strong influence among colonists. Throughout it all, Adams carried himself with diligence as he worked diligently to defend his clients.

Part II: Independence (1774–1776). The second episode delves into the debates among members of the Second Continental Congress over declaring independence from Great Britain, as well as the eventual drafting of the Declaration of Independence. Adams emerges as a prominent figure at the Congresses, forcefully advocating for independence and playing a key role in selecting George Washington as leader of the Continental Army. However, his eagerness for immediate action causes him to clash with many other founding fathers, and he even goes so far as to insult John Dickinson for his conciliatory stance towards the Crown, accusing him of moral cowardice rooted in religion. Franklin later advises Adams to refrain from public insults, stating that they are better kept within private conversations. When spoken in public, such behavior can be taken seriously by others.

Part III: Don’t Tread on Me (1777–1781). In Episode 3, Adams travels to Europe with his young son John Quincy during the Revolutionary War in hopes of securing alliances with foreign nations. Their ship engages in a battle with a British frigate. The episode first depicts Adams’ embassy with Benjamin Franklin at the court of Louis XVI of France. The French aristocracy, at the end of their era before the French Revolution, is portrayed as indulgent and debauched. They warmly receive Franklin, seeing him as a romantic figure, without acknowledging the democratic ideas he brings. In contrast, Adams is a straightforward and committed man who feels out of place in the midst of a culture focused on pleasure and promiscuity among the French upper class. He clashes with Benjamin Franklin, who has adapted to French customs and uses seduction to gain favors that Adams would seek through dramatic means. Franklin scolds Adams for his lack of diplomatic skills, labeling it a ‘direct insult followed by a petulant whine’. This leads to Adams being removed from any position of diplomatic authority in Paris by Franklin. Eventually, Franklin’s approach proves successful and contributes to the Franco-American victory at Yorktown.

Part IV: Reunion (1781–1789). The fourth episode depicts John Adams learning of the conclusion of the Revolutionary War and defeat of the British. Following this, he is sent to Paris to negotiate the Treaty of Paris in 1783. While abroad, he spends time with other notable figures such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. Abigail also pays him a visit. During this time, Franklin informs him that he has been appointed as the first American Ambassador to Great Britain, requiring him to relocate to London. This move was met with hostility from the British, who saw Adams as representing their recent enemy and a symbol of their declining empire. Despite meeting with his former monarch, George III, without incident, Adams faced harsh criticism in British newspapers. In 1789, he returned to Massachusetts for the first presidential election where he reunited with his now grown children alongside Abigail. Ultimately, George Washington was elected as the first President of the United States and John Adams became its first Vice President.

Part V: Unite or Die (1788–1797). The fifth episode opens with Vice President John Adams presiding over the Senate and discussing the naming of the new president. Adams is portrayed as frustrated in this position, unable to exert much influence except in cases of a tied vote. He is not included in George Washington’s inner circle and his relationships with Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton are strained. While Washington values his advice on other matters, he gently reminds Adams to refrain from ‘royalizing’ the presidency. One significant event depicted is the struggle to pass the Jay Treaty with Britain, which Adams must ultimately ratify despite facing opposition in a divided Senate (although historically his vote was not necessary). The episode ends with Adams being sworn in as the second president and arriving at a looted executive mansion.

Part VI: Unnecessary War (1797–1801). In the sixth episode, we see Adams in his role as president, maneuvering through the tension between the Federalists led by Hamilton and the Republicans led by Jefferson. His attempts at neutrality do not please either side and often result in anger from both. Relations with his vice president, Jefferson, become strained due to defensive actions taken against the French Republic and the passing of the Alien and Sedition Acts. This also creates a rift between Adams and Hamilton, who are at odds over preventing war with France. Tragically, Adams’s son Charles passes away as an alcoholic vagrant, adding to his personal struggles. Despite difficulties during his term, Adams experiences some success in avoiding war with France towards the end. However, this is overshadowed by his defeat in the 1800 presidential election to Jefferson and Aaron Burr of the same party. In March 1801, Adams leaves the Presidential Palace (now known as the White House) and retires to Massachusetts after facing negative publicity throughout his time in office.

Part VII: Peacefield (1803–1826). The last chapter delves into Adams’s later years, where he spends his retirement at Peacefield. Sadly, his home is marked by tragedy as his daughter, Nabby, passes away from breast cancer and Abigail succumbs to typhoid fever. Although Adams does witness the election of his son, John Quincy, as president, he is unable to attend the inauguration due to illness. In their final years, Adams and Jefferson reconcile through letters. Their deaths occur within hours of each other on July 4, 1826 – a momentous day marking the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. At 90 years old, Adams passes away just hours after the passing of his friend and former political rival, Jefferson who was 83.