Abigail Adams

John Adams' beloved wife and indispensable advisor for 54 years. Educated entirely at home, she was intelligent, tender, sensible, and as avid about learning as her husband. During Adams' long absences, the devoted, courageous Abigail managed the family, farm and finances under the duress of wartime. She joined her husband for a time in Europe, where she delighted in the arts and culture and formed a close bond with Thomas Jefferson. Abigail abhorred slavery and the inequality of women and proved to be one of the most involved and effective first ladies ever.