26th Annual Student Research Conference
John Adams: His Retrospective Views on Classical Republicanism in the American Republic
Molly J. Hendricks
Dr. David Robinson and Dr. Mark Hanley, Faculty Mentors
John Adams, like all of America's Founding Fathers, was influenced by many tenets of classical republicanism--the pursuit of public virtue, the check of corruption, an emphasis on disinterested leadership, and a passion for liberty. Throughout his political career, during which he helped to bring the American republic into being and mold it in its formative years, Adams had the opportunity to apply those tenets of classical republicanism that he held so dear. After his presidency, Adams reflected not only on the ongoing political issues of the times, but also the American past which he had been so much a part of. This project explores John Adams views on classical republicanism in the American Republic, as observed by him in letters to friends, rivals, strangers, and critics, from the time of his retirement to his death in 1826.
Keywords: John Adams, classical republicanism
Topic(s):History
History Senior Seminar
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 203-3
Location: VH 1236
Time: 10:00