John Adams (American Presidents Series)

Explore the Revolutionary Resolve of America's Second Leader

John Adams (American Presidents Series)

Explore the Revolutionary Resolve of America's Second Leader

Immerse yourself in the often-overlooked yet profoundly impactful legacy of John Adams, a monumental force in America's founding. This course invites you to step into the vivid world of early American politics and personal passions, exploring Adams' ardent advocacy for independence and his pivotal role alongside towering figures like Washington and Jefferson. Dive into the intimate correspondence with his remarkable partner, Abigail, as you witness history through the eyes of mutual intellect and devotion. Engage with Adams' unwavering commitment to nascent American ideals, navigating diplomacy, unity, and justice. This course empowers you with a deeper understanding of a steadfast visionary whose principles continue to reverberate through the corridors of modern governance. Enroll now to transform your perspective and mastery of American history.

Self Paced • Online Class • Accredited CEUs

$120

5.0 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

"Extraordinarily Helpful"

Add to Cart

OVERVIEW

CURRICULUM

Lesson 1. From Farmer to Lawyer: John Adams' Early Journey

John Adams, inspired by his politically active father, shifted from a reluctant student to a Harvard graduate determined to study law. His early ambitions, role models, and resilience were pivotal in shaping his future contribution to the United States.

Lesson 2. A Revolutionary Love Story: Abigail and John Adams

Despite initial familial resistance and societal expectations, Abigail and John Adams formed a synergistic marriage that revolutionized perceptions of women's roles in society. Their shared letters reveal the charming and intelligent discourse that underpinned their lifelong partnership.

Lesson 3. John Adams: From Activism to Presidency

Though often overshadowed by Washington and Jefferson, John Adams was a pivotal activist and influential in shaping American independence, fiercely opposing British rule and contributing to the First Continental Congress. His leadership against the Stamp Act highlighted his commitment to colonial rights and set the stage for his lasting legacy in American politics.

Lesson 4. John Adams: The Reluctant Revolutionary

Although John Adams opposed slavery's expansion and practice, his actions prioritized political unity over advocacy, waiting for less contentious times to tackle the issue. His involvement in legislative efforts against slave importation showcased a complex intersection of personal belief and political pragmatism.

Lesson 5. The Unsung Architect: John Adams and the Crafting of American Independence

John Adams played a pivotal role in advocating for American independence and was instrumental in drafting both the Declaration of Independence and new state constitutions. Despite his many contributions, including chairing numerous committees, he often felt overshadowed by Thomas Jefferson in historical credit.

Lesson 6. The Election of 1796: A Turning Point in American Politics

Returning from years of diplomacy, John Adams became the first vice president, experiencing a largely powerless role under George Washington. He later narrowly won the presidency, amidst political mudslinging and opposition from within his own party.

Lesson 7. Adams' Diplomatic Dilemma

Throughout his diplomatic career, Adams exemplified staunch efforts to protect U.S. interests amidst volatile European conflicts, balancing alliances with both France and Britain. However, internal divisions and legislative measures, spurred by the XYZ Affair, eventually undermined his leadership and political standing.

Lesson 8. The Turbulent Political Landscape of 1800: Adams, Hamilton, and Jefferson

The tumultuous politics of early America were marked by intense rivalries, with John Adams and Alexander Hamilton's clash shaping the presidential elections of 1800. Adams' legacy extended beyond the divisive 'quasi-war' with France, as he fortified the federal government and military infrastructure.

In This Course

5 Hours average completion time
0.5 CEUs
8 Lessons
14 Exams & Assignments
9 Reference Files
Mobile Friendly
Last Updated February 2024

Description

Welcome to our course on John Adams, the second president of the United States. Unfortunately, positioned between two equally great Founding Fathers like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, John Adams' own role as a major influence upon the young country is often overlooked.

In this course, students will learn more about this man who, perhaps more than any
other, was extremely vocal and fervent regarding American rights before,
during, and after the War for Independence. A brief overview of John Adams'
early years and his occupation as a lawyer is explored, as is his relationship
and marriage to his wife Abigail, whose influence on John and his attitudes,
beliefs and opinions of his times is not to be denied. Hundreds of letters
exchanged between John and Abigail Adams offers students a bird's eye view of
life, politics, beliefs, and fears of the early formation and development of
the United States.

Students will also learn that John Adams was an activist, one, who though vocally opposed to British rule, nevertheless actively served as a defense lawyer for British soldiers following the Boston Massacre. Students will gain a deeper understanding of John Adams' political views as well as his contribution toward the drafting of the Constitution, and his service as ambassador and Minister in overseas interests.

John Adams, who served two terms as vice president to George Washington, experienced his own difficulties as second president of the United States, including a quasi-war with France. Rivalries with other great man of his times, including
Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson are briefly covered, and which serve to
display the enormous fortitude, dedication and loyalty this man offered to the
United States of America as she withstood more than a few growing pains.

Skills You'll Develop

Discerning interpersonal dynamics
Analyzing personal influence on leadership
Evaluating legal frameworks
Exploring early American politics
Navigating diplomatic complexities
Examining advocacy vs. pragmatism
Critical historical analysis
Understanding political ideologies

More About This Course

Connect Letters to Legacy: Read intimate exchanges between John, Abigail
Understand Leadership Challenges: Explore Adams' struggles as president
Interpret Historical Rivalries: Investigate clashes with Jefferson, Hamilton
Discover Overlooked History: Learn John Adams' vital contributions
Gain Diplomatic Insights: Study Adams' foreign policy challenges
Engage with Revolutionary Politics: Understand early U.S. political landscape
Appreciate Complex Ideals: Explore Adams' stance on slavery
Analyze Constitutional Drafting: Examine Adams' role in key documents
Learn About An Unsung Architect: Discover Adams' fight for independence
Explore Foundational Relationships: See influence of Abigail Adams

What You'll Achieve

Identify the civic influences present in John Adams' early life and describe how they shaped his future leadership roles.
Analyze the impact of John Adams' education at Harvard on his philosophical views and future political engagement.
Recognize the significance of Abigail and John Adams' correspondence in showcasing their intellectual and political partnership during the American Revolution.
Describe Abigail Adams' early advocacy for women's rights and her influence on John Adams' political decisions through their correspondence.
Define the impact of John Adams' activism against the Stamp Act on the American Revolutionary movement, recognizing his role in uniting colonists against British taxation.
Describe the influence of Abigail Adams on John Adams' career, identifying her contributions to his stance on women's rights and abolitionist sentiments.
Define the contributions of John and Abigail Adams to American political thought by analyzing their writings and actions during the Revolutionary period.
Demonstrate an understanding of early American political dynamics by comparing the roles of John and Abigail Adams in shaping the dialogue on independence and women's rights.
Recognize the pivotal role John Adams played in advancing American independence by drafting foundational resolutions and influencing key historical documents.
Describe how John Adams' advocacy for state constitutions influenced the development of pivotal governance frameworks, including federalism and the U.S. Constitution.
Define the significance of the 1796 presidential election in establishing the two-party system and influencing future political strategies.
Analyze John Adams' role and contributions as vice president and how they impacted the legislative process and the early interpretation of the vice-presidency's responsibilities.
Demonstrate an understanding of John Adams' diplomatic strategies by analyzing their impact on U.S. foreign policy during his presidency.