Abigail Adams was her husband, John Adams, biggest supporter. Adams stood by her husband throughout his political career, even though he was never home. During his presidency, she balanced between spending time at home dealing with financial affairs and being at the new federal capital in Philadelphia. Adams shared the same political views as her husband and said, “I have a good opinion of my politics, since they agree with a Man who always thinks so justly”.(Akers, pg. 146) Adams devotion to her husband can be seen from the way she treats other political figures that dares to challenge her husband. She meets every challenger with a critical eye and was very judgmental. Abigail is a strong and confident woman; therefore she is not afraid to express her opinion about other political figures such as Benjamin Franklin and John Hancock. Adams sees Franklin as a political threat to her husband and calls him a disgrace to their country. Hancock, viewed by Adams, is a conceited and a ‘Golden Calf’ (Akers, pg. 81) because he uses his wealth to get his way in politics. The reason why Adams is so harsh towards these great political figures is because she loves her husband so much. Because she is such a large part of her husband’s political career, she feels that every success of his was also hers. Her husband goes to Adams for advice and encourage, which is not a common thing for husbands to go to their wives for. She is his greatest friend and “fellow laborer” (Akeres, pg. 164) Adams is a great American woman because of her love, devotion, and support for her husband, even though the toughest times.
Abigail Adams voiced her opinions during a time period when women’s opinions are not heard. Yet, she spoke her mind anyways. Adams demonstrate her love for learning through a strong advocacy for the education of women to allow then to better fulfill their roles as wives and mothers. Adams was a true patriot and wanted to contribution as much as she can to the country that she loves very much. Abigail formulated views towards Republican womanhood that would echo through all women in many generations. “[Adams] saw with remarkable clarity that colonial independence promised not only freedom from taxation… but a grand opportunity for Americans to preserve and extend their improvements… she wanted a separate legal existence for married woman that would make it easier for a wife to institute an action against an abusive husband… that would recognize her voice in the education of daughters.” (Akers, pg. 49-50) During her political spotlight, Adams will continue to make several more influential pleas for woman’s rights.
Abigail Adams not only voiced her opinions, but she led by example. Adams is a true American Woman because she never fails to support her husband throughout his political career. She also did much service to her country and followed her husband when he traveled to England and France. Adams mastered the skill of hospitality perfectly, which included her invigorating conversations which she is known for. Being very outspoken and confident, she always lets people know how she feels about a political topic. Adams is also known as the first women’s rights leader. Because she strongly believes in education and women’s independency, she was not afraid to voice her views. Her influenced even affected her husband, who listens to her thoughts and views. Her ability to speak freely in a time where women’s rights are unheard of makes an American Woman.
Abigail Adams is a wonderful role model. She took care of her children and home, constantly supported and stood by her husband, and was not afraid to voice her opinions even when they are frowned upon. Her unique confidence and supportive personality is what makes her stand out among other women during this time period. Abigail Adams is an inspiration to all American women in future generations because of her wonderful job as mother, wife, and political advocate.
