A Revolutionary American Woman, By Charles W. Akers
By phillir
The life story of Abigail Adams by Charles W. Akers, records the history about a woman who was an advocate for the rights of women throughout the American Revolution and the big part she played in the career of her husband that helped to persuade our society. The author opens up the story with giving readers information about two former United States Presidents, who both had family ties to Abigail. She was the biological mother to one of these powerful men and the spouse and helpmeet to the other. Readers find out that although she was known by her connection to these two authoritative males, this was a woman who was just as worthy to be known as the man she vowed a martial union with, and the one she brought into this world as her son. The writer then rewinds to ten years earlier before Abigail was born. It is here that we are introduced to Abigail’s parents. William Smith and Elizabeth Quincy who were united in Holy matrimony, and three daughters and one son were born to this union. Abigail was born on November 11, 1744 in Weymouth, Massachusetts. Although Abigail did not go to school, she was taught at home with the help of closely related family members. During this time, the main role of women was to care for their home, husband, and children and not to get involved in the business matters pertaining to men such as, war, commerce, politics and other issues. Not much importance was placed on women receiving an education as it was for men in these times, but Abigail had a desire to learn more that was fueled by her love of reading. Abigail took advantage of her desire to learn more by regularly reading books she had access to from her father’s library. Her craving for more knowledge was successful and set Abigail apart from other women in her era. On October 25, 1764, Abigail became the wife of John Quincy Adams, and over a period of six years, six children were