John Adams, an attorney and farmer, finds himself reluctantly caught in the tides of rebellion. His initial goal of a successful law practice is interrupted by the British shooting of colonial protesters. When no other attorney will defend the British commander, Adams, a staunch believer in due process and the power of the law to resolve conflict, takes the case. His acquittal of the British officer—and the fact that he is not tarred and feathered for taking the case—convinces him that the issues between the colonies and England can be resolved peacefully. As the king’s policies grow more heavy-handed, however, Adams evolves from moderate to radical.

Adams is arguably an overshadowed figure in the early days of the American Republic, but the text depicts a man with a keen legal mind and brilliant oratorical skills. The Continental Congress looks to him for guidance, he has the foresight to suggest Washington as commander of the army, and he understands the need for a stable governmental structure once the war is over. While he is subject to the same elitist tendencies as his colleagues—believing only wealthy, white male landowners should govern—he finally comes to embrace the true spirit of the quest for independence from England.