Soccer Dad

Adams, jefferson and the meaning of the fourth

The beginning of July is notable for some significant events in American History. The Battle of Gettysburg was fought from July 1 - 3 1863. But of course the most important event in American history during this time of year was the signing of the Declaration of Independence. John Adams wrote some of his recollections of the decision to choose Thomas Jefferson to write the founding document.

The subcommittee met. Jefferson proposed to me to make the draft. I said, 'I will not,' 'You should do it.' 'Oh! no.' 'Why will you not? You ought to do it.' 'I will not.' 'Why?' 'Reasons enough.' 'What can be your reasons?' 'Reason first, you are a Virginian, and a Virginian ought to appear at the head of this business. Reason second, I am obnoxious, suspected, and unpopular. You are very much otherwise. Reason third, you can write ten times better than I can.' 'Well,' said Jefferson, 'if you are decided, I will do as well as I can.' 'Very well. When you have drawn it up, we will have a meeting.'

Actually the Declaration was written on July 2, 1776 leading Adams to write

"The Second Day of July 1776 will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. . . . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires, and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."

The Declaration's signing is celebrated two days later, but other than that, Adams got it right.

The story of Adams and Jefferson wouldn't be complete without acknowledging their respective deaths on July 4, 1826, fifty years to the day of their greatest achievement. Over the years the men had been both rivals and close friends. Jefferson had also been close with Abigail Adams. And since it was Adams who got Jefferson to write the founding document of our country perhaps it is fitting that their stories ended on the same day.

I had hoped to write a more substantial post on this topic in honor of Independence Day, but when I saw Right Wing Nut House's Liveblogging the Continental Congress - July 3, 1776 I knew I couldn't do any better. So why not read his history with a (delightful) twist.

john adams, thomas jefferson, declaration of independence, july 4.