John Adams — 2nd President (1797–1801)

**John Adams** is the most underappreciated Founder — a brilliant, cantankerous lawyer from Massachusetts who argued for independence before it was popular, defended British soldiers at trial because the law required it, and served as the first Vice President before becoming the second President. He was vain, argumentative, and absolutely essential. His presidency was defined by keeping America out of war with France when every political incentive pushed toward conflict.