(1825–1829). He served as an American diplomat
, Senator
, and Congressional representative
. He was a member of the Federalist, Democratic-Republican, National Republican, and later Anti-Masonic
and Whig
parties
. Adams was the son of former President John Adams
and Abigail Adams
. As a diplomat, Adams played an important role in negotiating many international treaties, most notably the Treaty of Ghent
, which ended the War of 1812
.
Individual liberty is individual power, and as the power of a community is a mass compounded of individual powers, the nation which enjoys the most freedom must necessarily be in proportion to its numbers the most powerful nation.
This house will bear witness to his piety; this town, his birthplace, to his munificence; history to his patriotism; posterity to the depth and compass of his mind.
In charity to all mankind, bearing no malice or ill will to any human being, and even compassionating those who hold in bondage their fellow men, not knowing what they do.
My wants are many, and, if told, Would muster many a score; And were each wish a mint of gold, I still would want for more.
I want the seals of power and place, The ensigns of command, Charged by the people's unbought grace, To rule my native land. Nor crown, nor scepter would I ask But from my country's will, By day, by night, to ply the task Her cup of bliss to fill.
The great problem of legislation is, so to organize the civil government of a community ... that in the operation of human institutions upon social action, self-love and social may be made the same.
To furnish the means of acquiring knowledge is ... the greatest benefit that can be conferred upon mankind. It prolongs life itself and enlarges the sphere of existence.
This hand, to tyrants ever sworn the foe, For Freedom only deals the deadly blow; Then sheathes in calm repose the vengeful blade, For gentle peace in Freedom’s hallowed shade.