Abigail Smith Adams was born November 22, 1774 and was the wife of John Adams, Declaration of Independence signer and second United States President under the Constitution of 1787. Her son, John Quincy Adams, also served as U.S. President. John Adams frequently sought her counsel on political matters and their voluminous correspondence is filled with intellectual discussions. Their letters serve as invaluable primary sources that illuminate the founding period of the United States.