Abigail Adams

As their letters attest, it was no secret that John Adams relied on Abigail's astute political insight. Even then, he chose to ignore her insistence on gender equality. She raised her children and managed the farm single-handedly during John’s lengthy absences as a Founding Father. She struggled to suppress her opinions from unwelcome public scrutiny. Abigail did not take kindly to attacks on John's presidency and felt imprisoned in the White House. Though John’s political retirement caused her bitterness, it also meant no more painful separations between them. Ultimately, this brought her lasting contentment. She is the first First Lady to be the wife of a president and a mother to another.

Born: November 11, 1744, Weymouth, Massachusetts
Died: October 28, 1818, Quincy, Massachusetts

Early Life and Family Background

Abigail Smith was born on November 11, 1744, in Weymouth, Massachusetts. She was the second of four children born to William Smith, a Congregationalist minister, and Elizabeth Quincy Smith. Her father was a respected figure in the community, known for his sermons and guidance. Her mother was the daughter of John Quincy, a prominent figure who served as a member of the colonial Governor’s council, a colonel in the militia, and Speaker of the Massachusetts Assembly. Abigail’s ancestry included English and Welsh roots, with well-researched genealogical ties extending back to royal lines in various European countries, including France, Germany, Belgium, Hungary, Holland, Spain, Italy, Ireland, and Switzerland.

Education and Upbringing

Abigail received no formal education, which was typical for girls of her time. However, she was taught to read and write at home and had access to her father and grandfather’s extensive libraries. She took a special interest in philosophy, theology, Shakespeare, the classics, ancient history, government, and law. Abigail’s intellectual curiosity and self-education would later inform her advocacy for women’s education and her own significant role in political discourse.

Marriage and Family Life

At 19, Abigail married John Adams, a lawyer, on October 25, 1764, in her family home in Weymouth. The couple moved to a small cottage adjacent to John Adams’s birthplace before eventually settling in Boston. They had five children: Abigail “Nabby'' Adams Smith (1765-1813), John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), Susanna Adams (1768-1770), Charles Adams (1770-1800), and Thomas Boylston Adams (1772-1832).

Role During the American Revolution

When John Adams went to Philadelphia in 1774 as a delegate to the First Continental Congress, Abigail remained at home, managing the farm and household. Their separation led to an extensive correspondence, creating a rich archive that provides insight into their marriage and the political issues of the time. Abigail’s letters often included her observations and advice on political matters, making her an influential confidante to her husband.

In 1775, Abigail was appointed by the Massachusetts Colony General Court, along with Mercy Warren and Hannah Winthrop, to question Massachusetts women suspected of loyalty to the British crown. This quasi-official role marked the first instance of a First Lady holding a government position. Abigail also supported the revolutionary cause by melting down pewter tableware to make bullets for soldiers.

As the Second Continental Congress debated the Declaration of Independence, Abigail pressed her husband “I long to hear that you have declared an independency — and by the way in the new code of laws which I suppose it will be necessary for you to make I desire you would remember the ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the husbands.” While her efforts did not result in immediate changes, her letters are some of the earliest known writings calling for women’s rights.

Life as a Diplomat’s Wife

Separated from her husband when he served as minister to France and then England, Abigail managed the family affairs and corresponded regularly with John. She joined him in Europe in 1783, exploring France and England and receiving an audience with the king. Upon their return, during John Adams’s tenure as the first Vice President (1789-1797), Abigail spent part of each year in the capital cities of New York and Philadelphia, while Congress was in session.

First Lady

Abigail Adams became First Lady in 1797 when John Adams was elected President. She entered the role at the age of 52, well aware of the scrutiny and criticism that came with it. Abigail was a visible and influential figure, often referred to as “Mrs. President” due to her active involvement in political discussions. She was known for her forthright opinions and willingness to engage in political matters, often writing editorial letters to support her husband’s administration.

During her time as First Lady, Abigail lived in the temporary capital of Philadelphia and then in the newly constructed White House in Washington, D.C. for a total of only eighteen months. She is known for hanging her family’s laundry in the unfinished East Room of the White House, a practical solution that underscored the unrefined still-primitive conditions of the new capital.

Abigail Adams was a strong advocate for women’s education and the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. She also supported the Alien and Sedition Acts, viewing them as necessary to protect the nation from foreign influence and internal dissent.

Best Known For

Abigail Adams is best known for her extensive correspondence with her husband, John Adams, which provides valuable insights into the political and social issues of the Revolutionary era. She is also remembered for her advocacy of women’s rights and education, her forthright political opinions, and her influential role as the First Lady during a formative period in American history.

Life After the White House

After Thomas Jefferson defeated John Adams in the 1800 election, Abigail retired to their family farm, Peacefield, in Quincy, Massachusetts. She focused on managing the household and raising her granddaughter Susanna Adams. Despite her retirement, Abigail remained engaged in national politics, corresponding with notable figures, including President Jefferson and her successor, Dolley Madison.

Death and Legacy

Abigail Adams died on October 28, 1818, at her home in Quincy, Massachusetts, at the age of 73. She was buried beside her husband at the First Unitarian Church in Quincy. Abigail’s extensive correspondence, particularly with her husband, provides a unique and valuable perspective on the political and social issues of the Revolutionary era. She is remembered as a pioneering advocate for women’s rights and education, and her influence continues to be recognized and celebrated in American history.