Presidential Quotes by John Adams

Historically, usury was defined as any interest whatever on an unproductive loan.Our whole banking system I have ever abhorred, I continue to abhor, and…

— John Adams

“Daughter! Get you an honest Man for a Husband, and keep him honest. No matter whether he is rich, provided he be independent. Regard…

— John Adams

The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity

— John Adams

We may... affirm that the balance of power in a society accompanies the balance of property in land. The only possible way, then, of…

— John Adams

“The longer I live, the more I read, the more patiently I think, and the more anxiously I inquire, the less I seem to…

— John Adams

But what do we mean by the American Revolution? Do we mean the American war? The Revolution was effected before the war commenced. The…

— John Adams

“Upon common theaters, indeed, the applause of the audience is of more importance to the actors than their own aprobation. But upon the stage…

— John Adams

There are only two creatures of value on the face of the earth: those with the commitment, and those who require the commitment of…

— John Adams

I will insist the Hebrews have [contributed] more to civilize men than any other nation. If I was an atheist and believed in blind…

— John Adams

“Government is instituted for the common good; for the protection, safety, prosperity and happiness of the people; and not for the profit, honor, or…

— John Adams

Make Things rather than Persons the subjects of conversations.

— John Adams

During the whole time I sat with him in Congress, I never heard him utter three sentences together.

— John Adams

Religion and virtue are the only foundations, not of republicanism and of all free government, but of social felicity under all government and in…

— John Adams

The universal object and idol of men of letters is reputation

— John Adams

I consider a decent respect for Christianity among the best recommendations for public service.

— John Adams