Facts are stubborn things.
The undeniable nature of facts
John Adams, during his defense of British soldiers accused in the Boston Massacre, made a compelling argument emphasizing the importance of objectivity and evidence with the statement, "Facts are stubborn things." This expression highlights the resilience of true facts to remain unaltered by personal feelings or misinformation. Adams’ legal career and his role in the foundational years of the United States were deeply influenced by his commitment to justice and rational thought. His statement continues to resonate in legal, scientific, and political discourse as a reminder of the grounding power of factual evidence.
Background
John Adams
2nd President of the United States
Defense argument during the Boston Massacre trial, 1770