Adams, the Progressive (Abigail, that is)

The letters of Abigail Adams are clearly not meant for the audience they are now given to. However they provide a sense of understanding to their audience. We see that Adams is quite involved in progressive rhetoric, meeting many of the ideals explored on page 49 of Jimmie Killingsworth's "Appeals to Time".

Killingsworth writes that essential to proggressive rhetoric is the idea that the "new reform and the old reforms will mutually reinforce each other" (Killingsworth 49). Adams, herself makes this clear in her letter, saying that men must "give up the harsh title of Master for the... one of friend" (Adams 319). She signs her letters to her husband "Portia", evidently understanding that she may be of help to her husband, more as a partner than as a submissive (Adams 321).

Another aspect of the progressive rhetoric, the idea that "not taking the contemplated action will bring disastrous consequences" is also suggested in Adams' writing (Killingsworth 49). She notes that if care is not paid to the cause of the "Ladies", then the said ladies will not be "bound by any laws" (Adams 318). It is clear also, what action Adams desires, the right to a vote, "a voice, or Representation" (Adams 318). She clearly understands the elements involved in idea of progressive.

Killingsworth's third essential of progressive-ism is the idea that the "contemplated action" is enforced by "powerful historical forces" (Killingsworth 49). Despite our small selection of Adams' letters, we are given support for this element as well. She mentions that "Men of Sense in all Ages" have been aware of the folly of treating women as only "vassals of [the male] Sex" (Adams 319). Adams is acutely aware that she is not alone in her thought. She urges that men not be the "Master" but the protector of women, using their "power only for [their] happiness" (Adams 319).

Adams' letters adequately show an understanding of the progressive idea. Killingsworth's article, though written much later than the letters of Adams supports her ideas and indicates that she is truly forward thinking.