Abigail and John Adams

A half-century love affair during the Revolutionary War

Although she lived at a time when many women were not educated, Abigail Adams learned to read, developing an appreciation of current events. Her intellect attracted her to a young lawyer, John Adams, and they were married in 1764. It was an intellectual and romantic relationship that would last for more than 50 years.

The Revolutionary War and other events often forced Adams to be away from home for long periods of time, so they wrote each other long affectionate letters.

When she did join her husband, on diplomatic missions to Paris and London, and later in Washington, DC, Abigail was a valued partner, entertaining with style and observing people with interest.

In 1801 the Adamses left the White House and retired to their farm in Quincy, Massachusetts, where they remained in contented companionship, for the next 17 years.

Famous Love Stories in History

Anthony and Cleopatra
The last Pharaon of Egypt and the dashing Roman general

Abelard and Heloise
A monk and a nun whose love letters became famous

Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal
Grieving emperor who built the Taj Mahal for his late wife

John Alden and Priscilla Mullins
One of the earliest romances in the American colonies

Abigail and John Adams
A half-century love affair during the Revolutionary War

Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
English royalty who mourned her husband's death for 40 years

Robert and Elizabeth Browning
A secret courtship between two legendary poets

Marie and Pierre Curie
Partners in love and science

Annie Oakley and Frank Butler
Skilled rifle shots who inspired an American musical

Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne
Broadway couple who reigned for 55 years