Episode 5: Unite or Die
Following his inaugural address on 4 March 1797, John Adams found his first weeks as president of the United States filled with constant meetings. On 21 March, he moved into the President's House in Philadelphia (it would be nearly four years before the capitol moved to Washington) and was daunted by the chaotic conditions left by George Washington's servants. In a letter to Abigail the following day, John acknowledges his desire for her wise counsel in his first weeks in office.
Letter excerpt from John Adams to Abigail Adams, 22 March 1797
I never wanted your Advice and assistance more in my Life. My Country will not always oblige her Public Men to make Brick without Straw. As soon as I shall be out of the Question, their Presidents will go on Swimmingly whoever Lives to See it. But it is wicked to complain.
Other Adams documents related to the events of Episode 5
-
For Vice President John Adams's perspective on the pending resignation of Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson:
"I cannot but feel some regret at this Event: but his want of Candour, his obstinate Prejudices ..." (from a letter from JA to AA 26 December 1793)
-
For the notes Vice President John Adams took while listening to the debate in the United States Senate about a bill from House of Representatives regarding the organization of a department of foreign affairs:
"Treaties to be gone over, clause by clause, by the President and Senate together ..." (from page 5 of John Adams diary 46, entry for 15 July 1789 )