The Collaborators

Ellis describes Adams as a “short, stout, candid-to-a-fault New Englander,” and Jefferson as a “tall, slender, elegantly elusive Virginian” (163). They complimented one another not only through physicality but also through personality. Adams was combative, often allowing his emotions to dictate his reactions. Jefferson always remained an enigma, always coolly detached. “They were the odd couple of the American Revolution,” which is precisely why they worked so well together (163). Their friendship and collaboration began at the Continental Congress and strengthened at the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, but was firmly cemented when they, as ministers to England, were snubbed by King George III during a formal ceremony. The shared slight bonded them more than anything had before.