Essay Questions

What deductions could you derive regarding Adams’ persona based on his “1 July, 1714” letter?

John Adams affirms, “ whether I stand high or low in the estimation of the world, so long as I keep a conscience void of offense towards God and man. And this I am determined by the will of God to do, let what will become of me or mine, my country or the world.” Adams is unquestionably God-fearing. He is willing to endure inconveniences in his political and personal lives but he would not permit the inconveniences make him disrespect God. Adams affirms that it is practicable for a politician to be godly, righteous and credible.

Summarize the weight of the "Declaration of Independence" citing Abigail Adams' "14 August, 1716" letter.

Abigail Adams recounts, "Last Sunday, after service, the Declaration of Independence was read from the pulpit by order of Council. The Dr. concluded with asking a blessing "upon the United States of American even until the final restitution of all things." Dr. Chauncy's address pleased me." One of his audience told me it universally struck them." The declaration is central in the American ethos for it affirms the Americans' desire for sovereignty. Moreover, the declaration offers a rationale for God's blessings for the American people. Also, the declaration has room for God which depicts America as a Christian country.

Why does Abigail Adams justify the affliction of “Tory fleet” in her letter written on 21 April, 1776?

Abigail Adams explains, “We have intelligence of the arrival of some of the Tory fleet at Halifax; that they are much distressed for want of houses,-obliged to give six dollars per month for one room; provisions scarce and dear...Just Heavens has given them to taste of the same cup of affliction which they one year ago administered with such callous hearts to thousands of their fellow-citizens.” Abigail Adams endorses retribution when she argues that the fleet has been punished due to its past actions which amounted to the affliction of other citizens. The Tory have been made to face their past because they are currently struggling and straining socially and economically. Evidently, their affliction, which Adams considers divine justice, affirms the Tory are not utterly powerful. They are weathering the agony which they previously subjected other citizens to.