John Adams (1821), as quoted in Joseph J. Ellis, Passionate Sage (New York: Norton, 1993), p. 138
“
Slavery in this country, I have seen hanging over it like a black cloud for half a century.
— John Adams on Slavery in the United States
What It Means
This is a placeholder explanation generated by the low-overhead model. It interprets "Slavery in this country, I have seen hanging over it like a black cloud for half a century." in the context of "John Adams (1821), as quoted in Joseph J. Ellis, Passionate Sage (New York: Norton, 1993), p. 138" to mean that wisdom is timeless.
Source: Wikiquote: "Slavery in the United States" (Quotes)
The 'What it means' explanation text was generated by Google Gemini Flash (accessed January 18, 2026). https://gemini.google.com/app
About John Adams
John Adams (30 October 1735 – 4 July 1826) was an American lawyer, author, statesman, and diplomat. He served as the second president of the United States (1797–1801), the first vice president (1789–1797), and as a Founding Father was a leader of American independence from the British Empire. Adams was a political theorist in the Age of Enlightenment who promoted republicanism and a strong central government. His innovative ideas were frequently published. He was also a dedicated diarist and correspondent, particularly with his wife and key advisor Abigail. He was the father of John Quincy Adams.
About John Adams
John Adams (30 October 1735 – 4 July 1826) was an American lawyer, author, statesman, and diplomat. He served as the second president of the United States (1797–1801), the first vice president (1789–1797), and as a Founding Father was a leader of American independence from the British Empire. Adams was a political theorist in the Age of Enlightenment who promoted republicanism and a strong central government. His innovative ideas were frequently published. He was also a dedicated diarist and correspondent, particularly with his wife and key advisor Abigail. He was the father of John Quincy Adams.
View all quotes →