John Adams (1735–1826) was a highly educated and enlightened lawyer who became a central figure in the American Revolution. As a political theorist he influenced the constitutions of the former British colonies in America, and he is regarded, with Jefferson, as the father of the United States Constitution. First published in 1850–6, this collection brings together Adams' major writings. Given their influence not only on the United States, but also on other republics, Adams' works rank among the most important political writings of their time. Volume 2 contains diaries and autobiographical writings, which vividly depict American politics in the years leading up to the Revolution. The diary begins in 1755 with Adams being awakened by the New England earthquake; it concludes with the momentous year of 1776. It provides fascinating insights both into Adams' domestic affairs and into the birth of a nation.