1. 2nd President of the United States
John Adams
2nd President of the United States

2. Who was John Adams?
One of the most important (and smartest) Founding Fathers
Vice President to George Washington
A Federalist
A devoted husband-his letters to his wife Abigail are some of the most important and interesting primary sources the U.S. has today

3. THE XYZ AFFAIR! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afB5NJmER5M
I know it seems corny but it does a nice job summing it all up

4. Adam’s biggest accomplishment!
While many people called for war, Adams held fast and managed to steer the United States clear of conflict with France and England
“I desire no other inscription over my gravestone then: ‘Here lies John Adams, who took upon himself the responsibility of peace with France in the year of 1800.’”

5. Adam’s downfall: The Alien and Sedition Acts
These were actually four separate laws passed by Adams and a Federalist Congress to try and strengthen the Federal government, as well as to limit the opposition to the President led by the Republicans

7. The Alien and Sedition Acts continued…
Naturalization Act: Instead of five years, it took 14 years for an immigrant to become a citizen
Alien Act: President has the right to deport any “alien” (immigrant) who was dangerous to the peace and safety of the U.S.A.”
Alien Enemies Act: Congress could arrest any alien to an enemy country (in this case France)
Sedition Act: the publication of "any false, scandalous and malicious writing," was a high misdemeanor, punishable by fine and imprisonment.

8. Reaction The Public hated these laws, Adams’s popularity plummets
Many newspapers that supported Democratic Republicans were forced out of business

9. Virginia and Kentucky Resolutions