Samuel Adams: Son of Liberty, Father of Revolution

Oxford Portraits

by Benjamin H. Irvin

The story of one of the most important -- and most elusive -- figures of the American Revolution, Samuel Adams traces the life of the "Man of the Revolution," as he was called by Thomas Jefferson, from his childhood as a fifth-generation New Englander to his pivotal role in the Boston Tea Party and war that followed to a life spent in public service. Benjamin Irvin explores the fascinating contradictions of Samuel Adams's he was born into a family of high rank, but lived a humble, almost impoverished life; he could barely manage his personal household, but brilliantly managed the Massachusetts House of Representatives; he pushed for the Revolution, but resisted the Constitution; he spearheaded resistance to the English government but staunchly opposed resistance to the U.S. government. A perceptive look at the life of a complex man, Samuel Adams is an evocative portrait of one of our nation's most interesting Founding Fathers.

Oxford Portraits are informative and insightful biographies of people whose lives shaped their times and continue to influence ours. Based on the most recent scholarship, they draw heavily on primary sources, including writings by and about their subjects. Each book is illustrated with a wealth of photographs, documents, memorabilia, framing the personality and achievements of its subject against the backdrop of history.

Genres: Politics, History

176 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Manan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would give this book a 4 out of 5 star, because it did a great job of highlighting the achievements of Samuel Adams' life. However, I felt that some parts were unnecessary and was too slow. For instance, when Adams was going to the Continental Congress, the book described his journey there. This did not have an influential affect on his life, so it was unnecessary. Nonetheless, this book helped me understand who Samuel Adams actually was, not just something from a textbook.

[Whitney Stohr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read these books to my son. They're quick and easy reads, but still very educational.

[Sandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was interesting, however, there was more information about the things he was involved in than his life. It was a slow read for me, more like a textbook.