John Adams (1735–1826) was a highly educated and enlightened lawyer who became a central figure in the American Revolution. As a political theorist he influenced the constitutions of the former British colonies in America, and he is regarded, with Jefferson, as the father of the United States Constitution. First published in 1850–6, this collection brings together Adams' major writings. Given their influence not only on the United States, but also on other republics, Adams' works rank among the most important political writings of their time. Volume 8 contains official letters and papers covering the periods when Adams was Vice-President and President. They focus mainly on foreign affairs, in particular the disputes between France, Spain and Britain that threatened to involve the United States. A secret letter from Washington raises the possibility of British troops crossing America to attack Spanish interests.