They both still survive

John Adams died on this day in 1826, at the age of 91.

Adams was a delegate at both the first and second Constitutional Conventions and played a significant role in garnering European support for the American Revolution. He was the first Vice-President of the United States. He and Thomas Jefferson were correspondents for a quarter-century.

Adams resolved to live until the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence -- July 4, 1826. That morning he was awakened by his servant, who inquired if he knew what day it was.

"Oh, yes," Adams replied, "it is the glorious fourth of July. God bless it. God bless you all."

He then lapsed into unconsciousness. Later that afternoon, he awakened briefly.

"Thomas Jefferson still survives," he said before dying.

Jefferson had died earlier that day. His last words:

“Is it the Fourth? I resign my spirit to God, my daughter, and my country.”