Alexander Hamilton

Alexander Hamilton

ABOUT

Alexander Hamilton was a Founding Father of the United States, influential interpreter and promoter of the U.S. Constitution, and the founder of the nation’s financial system. Born on January 11, 1755, or 1757, Hamilton's life was marked by rapid ascent through merit and capability, ultimately serving as the first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington. A prolific writer and thinker, Hamilton was instrumental in shaping early American economic policy, advocating for a strong central government, and laying the foundation for its financial landscape.

BEFORE FAME

Hamilton's early life was marked by hardship. Born out of wedlock in Charlestown, Nevis, in the West Indies, his father abandoned the family while his mother fell ill and died when he was young. Despite these circumstances, Hamilton demonstrated prodigious talent from a young age. His promising intellect earned him opportunities, including a sponsorship to travel to New York for his education. After attending King's College (now Columbia University), Hamilton became a committed patriot during the American Revolution, serving as an aide-de-camp to General George Washington.

TRIVIA

• Hamilton was the primary author of the Federalist Papers, a series of 85 articles advocating the ratification of the United States Constitution.
• He founded the Bank of New York and played a crucial role in establishing the United States Mint.
• Hamilton’s visionary financial policies included the assumption of state debts by the federal government and the creation of a national bank.
• A duel with Aaron Burr, then Vice President of the United States, resulted in Hamilton's untimely death on July 12, 1804.

FAMILY LIFE

Hamilton married Elizabeth Schuyler, daughter of Philip Schuyler, a wealthy and influential general during the American Revolution, in 1780. The couple had eight children together: Philip, Angelica, Alexander Jr., James Alexander, John Church, William Stephen, Eliza, and Philip, named after their first son who tragically died in a duel. Hamilton's relationship with his wife was deeply affectionate, and Elizabeth became a dedicated guardian of his legacy following his death.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Hamilton’s life and work intersected with many prominent figures of the era. He was closely associated with George Washington, serving as his trusted aide and collaborating with him throughout his presidency. He clashed with political adversaries like Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, contributing to the formation of the first American political parties. His legacy continues to be felt today, having inspired the critically acclaimed musical “Hamilton” by Lin-Manuel Miranda, which brought his story to a new global audience.