The French Revolution stands head and shoulders (pun intended) above the crowd in Western History when it comes to demonstrating the dangers of “democracy.” Never let someone get away with describing the United States of America as a democracy. We're a “republic,” with safeguards against the tyranny of the majority (and minority), thank God.
President Adams dealt with the aggressive provocations of post-revolution France with strength (establishing for good America's sea-going fighting services) and restraint. Were you in class with me, it would be at this point we'd turn our seats around and put in the excellent “John Adams” film produced by Warner Brothers in 2008, featuring Paul Giamatti as Adams.
Of particular interest in the mini-series’ addressing of the two year undeclared sea war with France was the depiction of Adams’ headaches in dealing with fellow Federalist Alexander Hamilton. As the old saw goes: “With friends like these…”
John Adams was not a popular figure despite his being the driving force behind American Independence; a loyal vice president; and a commander-in-chief unwilling to see the nation disrespected on the world stage, but also thick-skinned enough to resist plunging the nation into another protracted war so close to our late revolution. I admire President John Adams. His deft navigation of foreign policy in the long shadow of his gigantic predecessor was no easy feat.
Next Week: President John Adams’ Domestic Policy Big Idea
Shane Morris is a retired soldier and teacher. Contact at sigm11@yahoo.com (Subject: NtC)
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