Part 3, Chapter 9 Summary

Adams was inaugurated on March 4, 1797. The overflowing House Chamber broke into applause when Washington entered. Already seated as vice president, Jefferson greeted Adams, who appeared shorter and bulkier than usual, standing between the lanky Virginians. Never again would the trio appear together on one platform. Determined to be a truly republican president, Adams wanted none of the courtly trappings of his predecessor. With none of his family present, he was miserable and slept poorly the night before. Nevertheless, he spoke forcefully about where he stood on the Constitution, partisan politics, domestic concerns, France, war and peace. He graciously thanked Washington for his leadership, lauded American agriculture and manufacturing and pledged good faith to American Indians.

Adams esteemed the French and wanted peace with all nations. The speech was a conscious appeal to posterity. Then, invoking the Supreme Being, he took the...