The words of John Adams in a letter to his wife Abigail the day after the signing of the Declaration of Independence are often quoted by Patriots on the 4th of July, and should be! But the full context of that letter shows a more solemn side that we don’t quote as often. In this letter, dated July 3rd (the Constitution was actually signed July 2nd), John Adams says, “When I look back…and recollect the series of political Events, the Chain of Causes and Effects, I am surprised at the Suddenness, as well as the Greatness of this Revolution. Britain … Continue Reading “American Independence: A joyous and solemn occasion”