Previous biographies of Adams have given short shrift to his presidential years, but his tenure in the highest office was one of his most important contributions to the nation. John Adams’s unique background, inimitable personality, and extraordinary marriage shaped his approach at several pivotal turning points during his administration. As he stood in the frayed and dusty living room of his new home in Philadelphia, Adams knew that the next four years would be nearly impossible, but he accepted the burden anyway. When he left the presidency in 1801, he did so satisfied that it was stronger than when he assumed office. George Washington created the presidency, but John Adams defined it.
—Lindsay M. Chervinsky, Making the Presidency (Introduction, page 9)