In his July 13, 1813 letter to Thomas Jefferson, John Adams provides a blistering critique of the French Revolution, contrasting it with the American experience. Adams argues that governments must evolve from historical precedent, warning that revolutions without institutional continuity descend into chaos. He highlights the failures of revolutionary zeal, noting how leaders like Robespierre became victims of their own excesses. Adams also questions Jefferson’s optimism, arguing that tearing down a government is far easier than building a new one. Despite their ideological differences, Adams reaffirms his deep respect for Jefferson, seeing their exchanges as an invaluable exercise in political thought. His letter serves as a cautionary tale on the volatility of revolution and the necessity of stable governance.