Abigail and John Adams were unique in a number of ways, not least of which was as America's 2nd president. Joseph J. Ellis biography owes much to their extensive correspondence. Because his duties often took him from home the letters written between them provide a rich trove of historical material, far beyond what is available for any of the other founders of our nation. The book's full title is First Family: Abigail and John Adams.
Abigail's first billing in the title of the book is an acknowledgement of the her significance both to her husband and to the nation. She was his rock, intellectual partner and a leader in her own right. When John is away working with others on the Constitution she keeps urging him "not to forget the ladies" which prompts John to respond "next you'll be wanting women to vote."
Neither Thomas Jefferson nor Alexander Hamilton come off very well. Jefferson for playing dirty political tricks when Adams is running for a second term in spite of their long friendship. They do reconcile in old age when both have retired from public life. However, Abigail shows her mettle and adroit use of language when she confronts Jefferson via letter.
Hamilton, though of Adam's own party, did much to undermine the President. Reconciliation was never achieved because Hamilton was killed in a duel. My reading is that Ellis was doubtful that it could have been achieved anyway.
The extensive correspondence also allows insight into Adam's family life. Two sons die as alcoholics and their daughter, trapped in an unhappy marriage, died of breast cancer. One son, John Quincy, became a one term president like his father.
It's not surprising that this well written book went on to be a National Bestseller. I recommend it.
