Final answer:
John Adams gained notoriety before the Declaration of Independence by pushing for the creation of state constitutions and his active role in the American independence movement, deeply influenced by Enlightenment ideas and his diplomatic endeavors in Europe.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before coauthoring the Declaration of Independence, John Adams gained notoriety for advocating for the creation of state constitutions and his influential role in pushing for American independence. As a prominent figure in the Continental Congress, his views were heavily influenced by Enlightenment thinkers like Montesquieu. Adams played a significant role in shaping early American political thought and legislative practices.
During the crucial years leading up to the Revolution, Adams emerged as a vocal leader. He was instrumental in urging the newly independent colonies to establish their own governments, embodying the principles of republicanism and democracy. His diplomatic skills were also evident during his time in Europe, where he worked alongside Thomas Jefferson and others to secure necessary aid and formal recognition for the struggling American states.