While in retirement, Adams begins to write his memoirs, corresponds with Jefferson after a series of personal tragedies, and lives to see his son John Quincy become president.

President Adams tries desperately to keep the nation out of war; Adams disowns his alcoholic son, Charles; Jefferson claims the presidency after Adams fails to win a second term.

Adams becomes the country's first vice president; the ongoing conflict between the British and the French strains Adams' friendship with Jefferson; Adams is elected president in 1796.

John and Abigail reunite in Paris; he goes to London as America's first minister to Britain, then must deal with family concerns upon his return to Boston.

Adams and Jefferson visit France to gain financial and military support for America's Revolutionary War effort; Adams falls victim to an illness.

After the Boston Massacre, John Adams agrees to serve as defense attorney for the accused British soldiers; several years later, he joins the Continental Congress.

Adams nominates George Washington to lead the newly formed Continental Army; Thomas Jefferson drafts the Declaration of Independence; Congress votes to declare independence from... Full summary