In retirement, Adams starts writing his memoirs, then endures a series of tragedies when his daughter Nabby dies of cancer and, a few years later, Abigail succumbs to typhoid fever.
Adams reports the sad news to Jefferson, with the two old friends and adversaries taking solace in a correspondence that mends old wounds and lasts the rest of their lives.
On July 4, 1826, having lived to see his son John Quincy become President, 90-year-old John Adams dies on the 50th anniversary of the ratification of the Declaration of Independence - and on the very same day as Jefferson.
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On TV
First Shown
| Date | Time | Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday 07 February 2009 | 5.20PM | Channel 4 |
Last Shown
| Date | Time | Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday 07 February 2009 | 5.20PM | Channel 4 |