John Adams: The American Presidents Series: The 2nd President, 1797-1801 (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780805069372)

A revealing look at the true beginning of American politics

Until recently rescued by David McCullough, John Adams has always been overshadowed by Washington and Jefferson. Volatile, impulsive, irritable, and self-pitying, Adams seemed temperamentally unsuited for the presidency. Yet in many ways he was the perfect successor to Washington in terms of ability, experience, and popularity.

Possessed of a far-ranging intelligence, Adams took office amid the birth of the government and multiple crises. As well as maintaining neutrality and regaining peace, his administration created the Department of the Navy, put the army on a surer footing, and left a solvent treasury. One of his shrewdest acts was surely the appointment of moderate Federalist John Marshall as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

Though he was a Federalist, Adams sought to work outside the still-forming party system. In the end, this would be his greatest failing and most useful lesson to later leaders.

Diggins's slim volume offers a reconsideration of Adams, a thoughtful study of American politics of the period and Adams's legacy for today. - Publishers Weekly

Author: John Patrick Diggins, Diggins
ISBN-10: 0805069372
ISBN-13: 9780805069372
Publisher: Times Books
Language: English
Published: 06/11/2003
Pages: 224
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 0.85lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.70w x 0.90d

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 03/15/2003 pg. 439
Booklist 04/15/2003 pg. 1444
Publishers Weekly 05/15/2003
Library Journal 05/15/2003