1. The Rhetoric of John Adams Liberty Will Reign The Inaugural Address The Power of Celebrity Presidential Legacy

2. Liberty Will Reign Adams as a powerful orator Use of abstract techniques when addressing an audience http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2FAAVPX- jg&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2FAAVPX- jg&feature=related

3. Works Cited Farrell, J. M. (2002). Classical virtue and presidential fame: John Adams, leadership, and the Franco- American crisis. In L. G. Dorsey (Ed.), The presidency and rhetorical leadership (pp. 73-94). College Station, TX: Texas A&M University Press. Parry-Giles, Trevor. “Fame, Celebrity, and the Legacy of John Adams.” Western Journal of Communication 72 (2008): 83-101. "Inaugural Address of John Adams." America's Homepage. Georgia Tech University. Web. 19 Sept. 2009..

4. Inaugural Address Adams addresses the issues of the current day References the Revolutionary War Spends the majority of the speech talking about the Constitution Highlights the sense of community as it trumps the sense of self Key words: – Government – Constitution – Election – Union

5. The Power of Celebrity He is remembered for his affective rhetoric of pity, oversight, and love (Giles) He is referenced along with his colleagues Known as a “Founding Father” Unpopular Policy Maker Image among constituents

6. Leaving a Legacy “…[Adams] followed a philosophy of republican virtue that demanded a sacrifice of private interest in the pursuit of the larger public good” (Farrell) Wrote letters to prompt public recognition of his accomplishments Afraid that his name would not hold historical significance and wrote statements as if to reverse that legacy

7. Discussion Questions 1. Why is John Adams one of the least remembered presidents? Does it have to do with his predecessor and successor in office? 2. What was his most lasting impression? Will he be remembered for the popular or unpopular policies of his administration?