6. Abigail Smith and John Adams
Abigail Smith Adams was the first American woman to become both the wife of a president and the mother of another. Her role in American history is little discussed in classrooms, but it was as significant as any of the men known collectively as the Founding Fathers. During his many absences from their Quincy, Massachusetts home, in Philadelphia, and in France and later Holland, Adams maintained a steady correspondence with his wife, who replied in kind. They exchanged over 1,000 letters, most of which survive, in which their mutual affection remains evident two centuries later. Abigail’s views on government, women’s rights and roles, and the conduct of diplomacy were adopted by John, and through him entered the debates over the shaping of the young United States.
The Constitution of the United States was debated in secret, with the convention sitting as a Committee of the Whole. Much of what occurred during those discussions that is known today came from John’s letters to Abigail, as well as her responses. She also maintained a steady correspondence with other founders, including Benjamin Rush and Thomas Jefferson, then in Paris. Her influence on the formation of the new government in the United States was immeasurable, based on the long love affair and deep friendship she shared with her husband. Abigail Adams was the first First Lady to take up residence in the Executive Mansion, though for a short time only, late in her husband’s single term in office.