Real History: John Adams Miniseries Discussion

Introduction

• Hosts: Jared Frederick and Emily Doherty
• Focus: HBO's John Adams miniseries (2008), acclaimed for its accuracy and cinematic quality
• Emily's background: Formerly worked at Colonial Williamsburg, now in military history
• Goal: Examine historical accuracy and representation in the John Adams miniseries

Episode 1: "Join or Die"

• Setting: 1770s Boston
• Opening: Comparison to "Gods and Generals" for opening flag sequence
• Historical context: Set during the colonial era, prelude to the American Revolution
• Material Culture: Attention to detail, e.g., proper women’s caps, protest flags

Key Historical Context

• John Adams: Played a significant role in defending British soldiers post-Boston Massacre
• Boston Massacre: Event where British soldiers fired into a crowd
  • Misrepresentation: Adams not necessarily present at the event
  • Trial: Two separate trials for Captain Preston and enlisted men

Historical Narratives and Representation

• Propaganda Use: Paul Revere’s engraving as a political tool
• Material Culture: Critique of children’s costumes, use of period-appropriate clothing
• Mob Mentality: Fear of fire and taxation; comparisons drawn with modern political movements
• Slavery and Race: John Adams and his son did not own slaves, unique among presidents

Social and Political Climate

• Choosing Sides: Loyalties divided families; political leanings had personal consequences
• Taxation Issues: Colonists resisted taxes, not against taxation itself but lack of representation
• Non-importation Agreements: Hurt both British and American merchants
• Tea Act: Symbolized broader issues of taxation without representation

Cinematic Choices and Historical Accuracy

• Trial Representation: Simplified for cinematic purposes
• Historical Figures and Events: Adjustments made for dramatic effect
  • Josiah Quincy (co-counsel) not shown
  • Sam Adams and John Adams portrayed as more divided than reality
• Artistic Decisions: Choices in costume and setting, e.g., pink wallpaper, color use

Legacy and Cultural Impact

• David McCullough’s Biography: Basis for the miniseries
• Tom Hanks’ Role: Executive producer, influenced by McCullough

---

Recommended Further Reading

• Donald Johnson's "Occupied America": Insights on urban politics during the Revolution
• Richard Stark’s "The Office and Authority of a Justice": Understanding of 18th-century law

Conclusion

• The series succeeds in condensing complex political and social narratives.
• Highlights the dramatic personal and political struggles of the time.
• Encourages viewers to delve deeper into the historical context behind the drama.