Alexander Hamilton
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- born
- January 11, 1755, or 1757
- died
- July 12, 1804
- field
- Politics, finance, military
- nationality
- American
- known_for
- First U.S. secretary of the treasury, founder of the Federalist Party, co-author of The Federalist Papers
Lore & Background
Hamilton was born out of wedlock in Charlestown on the Caribbean island of Nevis. Despite his young age, he became an anonymous but prolific pamphleteer and advocate for the American Revolution. He fought at the Siege of Yorktown, which secured American victory. He opposed entanglement with French revolutionary governments and advocated the Jay Treaty. After resigning in 1795, he returned to his law practice. Burr, offended by Hamilton's opposition to his 1804 gubernatorial candidacy, challenged him to a duel. Hamilton was mortally wounded on July 11, 1804, and died the next day.
Reader's Guide
Hamilton's significance lies in his foundational role in shaping American financial and governmental institutions. Scholars regard him as an astute and intellectually brilliant administrator, politician, and financier, though sometimes impetuous.
Did You Know?
- Hamilton was born on January 11, 1755, or 1757, in Charlestown on the Caribbean island of Nevis.
- He authored 51 of the 85 installments of The Federalist Papers.
- Hamilton was mortally wounded in a pistol duel with Aaron Burr on July 11, 1804, and died the following day.
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