State of the Union Addresses By John Adams John Adams (October 30 [O.S. October 19] 1735 - July 4, 1826) was an American patriot who served as the second President of the United States (1797-1801) and the first Vice President (1789-97). He was a lawyer, diplomat, statesman, political theorist, and, as a Founding Father, a leader of the movement for American independence from Great Britain. He was also a dedicated diarist and correspondent, particularly with his wife and closest advisor Abigail. Dates of addresses by John Adams in this publication: November 22, 1797 December 8, 1798 December 3, 1799 November 11, 1800