Adams, Hannah

About the author

Hannah Adams (1755–1831) holds a special place in American literary history as the first woman in the United States to make a living through writing. Born in Medfield, Massachusetts, Adams was largely self-taught, driven by an insatiable curiosity and a passion for knowledge. Despite financial hardships, she pursued an intellectual path, creating works that reflected her deep engagement with theology, history, and religion.

Her most notable work, A View of Religions (1784), was a pioneering effort to provide an unbiased, comparative study of various religious beliefs and practices. Adams approached the subject with remarkable objectivity, an uncommon trait in her era, and this work gained widespread acclaim, securing her reputation as a scholar. Her other significant contributions include A Summary History of New-England and The History of the Jews, which further demonstrated her meticulous research and scholarly rigor.

Adams was also known for her commitment to intellectual freedom and equal representation, traits that influenced the tone and content of her works. She broke barriers in a male-dominated literary world, inspiring future generations of women writers. Her legacy remains a testament to the power of perseverance and intellectual curiosity.