He didn't write the Declaration of Independence but he convinced Thomas Jefferson to write it. He couldn't propose independence but he repeatedly compelled Congress to act. He wasn't a military commander but he inspired George Washington to lead them. John's love for his brilliant wife Abigail is inspiring for all those who read their story. Thanks to David McCullough's book John Adams and the miniseries it inspired, John has finally been given some of the recognition he has so richly deserved. Without John Adams, the US could never have begun or survived. Along with his life-long friend and rival Thomas Jefferson, he is one of the two most important founders. You know of Jefferson, now meet John Adams.