Profile of the Day: Abigail Adams

Abigail Adams

On this day in 1764, future President John Adams married Abigail Smith at the Smith family home in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

Abigail Adams was born on November 22, 1744 to Elizabeth Quincy and William Smith, a pastor. The couple had known each other since they were children and throughout their courtship and marriage exchanged over 1,100 letters. Their letters were filled with intellectual discussions on government and politics and provided a unique window into 18th century life and personal insight into the impact of the American Revolutionary War at home.

Abigail was a staunch abolitionist and advocate of women’s rights. She was outspoken about her political views and was not shy to debate her husband on political or social matters. She is famously remembered for her letter to John while he was attending the Continental Congress. She wrote, “remember the ladies, and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the Husbands. Remember all Men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the Ladies we are determined to foment a Rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any Laws in which we have no voice, or Representation.”

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Image: Wikimedia Commons