Reflections on John Adams and America’s Founding
With America celebrating its 250th birthday this year, I’ve found myself taking a much deeper interest in the founding of our nation. That curiosity has led me to brush up on my American history through books and films, and I recently finished the 2008 HBO seven-part miniseries John Adams, based on David McCullough’s outstanding biography. Directed by Tom Hooper and executive produced in part by Tom Hanks, I can honestly say it was absolutely captivating.
Not only did I learn a great deal from John Adams’ perspective, much of which I had never known, but the series immerses you in the political climate of the time, which, in many ways, doesn’t feel all that different from today. It leaves you with a profound appreciation for just how close America came to never becoming a nation at all, and for the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of the men who made independence possible.
Of course, they were flawed men with differing convictions and motivations. Yet the fact that representatives from thirteen very different colonies struggled, debated, disagreed, and ultimately united behind the Declaration of Independence was nothing short of a miracle. Knowing they signed that document fully aware they could lose not only their fortunes, but their families and their very lives, gave me an entirely new appreciation for what they sacrificed so future generations could live free.
More than anything, I couldn’t help but see the hand of Providence throughout the story. Had any number of events unfolded differently, history may have taken an entirely different course. Yet God, in His sovereign goodness, seemed to be accomplishing something far greater than any one individual could have imagined. The final moments of the series portray a remarkable true event that beautifully symbolizes that reality. I won’t spoil it for anyone who wants to watch, but I’ll simply say I was left with tears streaming down my face as the significance of how John Adams’ life led to freedoms I so often take for granted finally sank in.
Paul Giamatti’s performance was simply phenomenal. He disappeared into the role and gave me an entirely new appreciation for both his talent and for John Adams himself. While Adams is often overshadowed by towering figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, his story is every bit as compelling. He had his share of shortcomings, but he was deeply committed to principle, honesty, integrity, and the rule of law. His marriage and lifelong friendship with Abigail Adams was equally inspiring.
Laura Linney was exceptional as Abigail Adams. I’ve always been somewhat on the fence about her as an actress, but she completely won me over. Her performance was powerful, heartfelt, and unforgettable. She does a credit to a woman whose influence on both her husband and our nation’s history deserves far more recognition than it often receives.
I also appreciated the series’ commitment to historical realism. At times it was difficult to watch, but it vividly illustrated the hardships endured by those who came before us, from the brutal realities of war to the limitations of eighteenth-century medicine. It certainly made me more thankful for the many blessings we so easily take for granted today.
This journey through America’s founding has strengthened not only my appreciation for our history, but also my gratitude to God for the remarkable freedoms we enjoy. While no nation is perfect and no generation has been without flaws, I believe it is good and right to thank God for His many blessings and to remember the men and women whose sacrifices helped secure the liberty we have inherited.
If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to commemorate America’s 250th birthday, I cannot recommend John Adams highly enough. It is one of the finest historical productions I’ve ever watched.
Next on my list is the 2025 documentary The American Revolution. If you have any favorite books, films, or documentaries that capture the spirit of America’s founding, I’d love to hear your recommendations. 🇺🇸
