Back to Show
American Experience
How the vice presidency went from pitiful to powerful
America’s first vice president, John Adams, called his job “the most insignificant office that ever the invention of man contrived.” But that would change dramatically over the next two and a half centuries.
Sign up now for inspiring and thought-provoking media delivered straight to your inbox.
Support Provided By

Unlock with PBS Passport
1:50:37
Part of the award-winning The Presidents collection.