James Truslow Adams was an American historian and writer best known for coining the term "American Dream" in his 1931 work "The Epic of America." His influential definition described it as "that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement." Adams earned the Pulitzer Prize in History in 1922 for "The Founding of New England," the first volume of his acclaimed trilogy on New England's development, which included "Revolutionary New England, 1691–1776" and "New England in the Republic, 1776–1850."
After beginning his career in investment banking, Adams transitioned to writing in 1912 once he secured financial independence. His scholarly works often explored American identity and regional history, exemplified by his contributions to the "History of American Life" series, including "Provincial Society, 1690–1763." Adams also produced notable studies of prominent families, such as "The Adams Family" and "Henry Adams," despite having no relation to the Massachusetts clan. His clear prose and meticulous research established him as a significant voice in early 20th-century American historiography.