American History

John Adams (HBO MINISERIES)

Part I: How is John Adams portrayed in the series? What do you see as his strengths and weaknesses? What words would you use to characterize his personality? Which scenes (Be specific!) shed the most light on his views and values?

Part II: In Part 1 of the miniseries, Adams agrees to defend British soldiers accused of firing at colonists during the Boston Massacre. Why does Adams make this controversial decision? What is the outcome of the case? What price does Adams pay for this decision? Do you see a contradiction between Adams’s identity as an American patriot and his role as a defender of British soldiers? Explain.