United States Founding Mothers

In reference to early United States History, most of the notable figures are men. Although less popular in our history books, many women have contributed greatly to the establishment of our great nation. These women include: Abigail Adams, Martha Jefferson, Martha Washington, and Elizabeth Hamilton.

Abigail Smith Adams

Born in 1744, Abigail Smith was a common woman for the time. She lacked formal education, but descended from the prestigious Quincy family. She was an avid reader, and a born intellectual. It was this very love for education that bonded her with her husband, John Adams. It was indeed a marriage of the mind and the heart.

Her letters to her Husband speak of a woman hurt by war, and deeply involved in the patriotic struggle. She tended the farm while her husband was away. Also, she educated her five children when formal education was interrupted. She was a bit of a superwoman. Her mothering skills show in the success of her children; most notably, John Quincy Adams, the 6 th president. Abigail died in 1818. She is remembered for her patriotism and drive. Not many can say they married a president and gave birth to another.

Martha Wayles Skelton Jefferson

When Thomas Jefferson began courting Martha Wayles Skelton, she was already a widow, and heiress, and a mother. The couple was married on New Years Day, 1772, at Martha’s plantation home near Williamsburg. Their first child together, Martha, was born in September of that year. During their ten years of marriage, they had five other children. However, sadly, only two of their children lived to grow up. L

The physical strain of labor and birth gravely weakened Martha Jefferson, to the point where her husband abridged his political work in order to stay close to her. He served in the government in Virginia, but refused offers of foreign engagement. By 1781, her physical health condition was dangerous. Her husband noted in his journal on September 6, “My dear wife died this day at 11:45 A.M.” Her death was an emotional event for Thomas Jefferson, and caused him much violent anguish. He was deeply in love with her, and she influenced his life and his career during those ten years of marriage.

Martha Dandridge Cusis Washington

Behind every great man stands a great woman, and in our nation’s brief history George Washington is arguably one of the greatest, most notable men to walk this earth.

From the start of their marriage in 1759, Martha Washington’s chief concern was the comfort and well-being of her husband and children. When the Revolutionary war broke out, Martha stood behind General Washington bravely. When Washington was elected president, she stood beside him even though she longed for her Virginia home throughout his term.