Alexander Hamilton

1. Hamilton's Caribbean Origins Shaped His Ambition

Like a few hundred thousand other people, I’ve been reading Ron Chernow’s enthralling biography of Alexander Hamilton.

Humble Beginnings. Born out of wedlock on the island of Nevis, Alexander Hamilton's early life was far removed from the tidy New England villages or baronial Virginia estates of other founding fathers. This West Indian setting, a crossroads of maritime rivalry and the brutal sugar trade, exposed him to both natural beauty and the horrors of slavery.

Island Life. Nevis was a place of overnight fortunes built on the backs of enslaved Africans. The island was also a haven for vagabonds, criminals, and other societal outcasts. This environment instilled in Hamilton a deep understanding of the darker aspects of human nature and the precariousness of social standing.

Ambition as Escape. Hamilton's illegitimacy and the social stigma it carried fueled an intense desire to rise above his circumstances. He yearned for recognition and respect, traits that would drive his relentless pursuit of excellence and shape his vision for a strong, unified America.

2. Scandal and Hardship Marked Hamilton's Early Life

The life of Alexander Hamilton was ‘so tumultuous that only an audacious novelist could have dreamed it up.’

Family Turmoil. Hamilton's mother, Rachel Faucette, endured a tumultuous marriage and imprisonment for adultery before fleeing to St. Kitts, where she met James Hamilton. The couple's subsequent relationship, though loving, was marred by the social stigma of illegitimacy.

Abandonment and Loss. James Hamilton deserted his family, leaving Rachel to support Alexander and his brother. Rachel's death from a raging fever when Alexander was just thirteen left him orphaned and destitute, forcing him to rely on the kindness of relatives and the community.

Education in Hardship. These early experiences instilled in Hamilton a profound sense of self-reliance, a deep understanding of economic insecurity, and a burning desire to overcome adversity. They also shaped his views on human nature, leaving him with a pessimistic outlook tempered by an unwavering belief in the power of individual effort.

3. Hamilton's Intellect and Drive Propelled His Rise

As Ron Chernow points out in this magnificent biography, Hamilton was the boy wonder of early American politics.

Early Promise. Despite his lack of formal schooling, Hamilton displayed exceptional intelligence and a voracious appetite for knowledge. He devoured books, mastered multiple languages, and quickly absorbed the principles of commerce while working as a clerk for a trading firm.

Hurricane Letter. Hamilton's life took a dramatic turn when he wrote a vivid account of a devastating hurricane that struck St. Croix. The letter, published in a local newspaper, impressed influential figures who recognized his extraordinary talent and arranged for him to receive an education in North America.

From Clerk to Collegian. Arriving in New York, Hamilton quickly excelled at preparatory school and gained admission to King's College (now Columbia University). His intellectual prowess and charismatic personality soon attracted the attention of prominent figures who would become his mentors and allies.

4. The Revolution Forged Hamilton's Vision of a Strong Nation

The passions of a revolution are apt to hurry even good men into excesses.

Early Patriot. Hamilton's commitment to American independence was ignited by the injustices he witnessed under British rule. He joined the militia, studied military tactics, and quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating both intellectual and martial prowess.

Washington's Aide. Hamilton's exceptional abilities led to his appointment as aide-de-camp to General George Washington. This close association provided him with invaluable insights into the challenges of leading a fledgling nation and solidified his belief in the need for a strong central government.

Vision of Unity. Serving alongside Washington, Hamilton witnessed firsthand the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the dangers of disunity among the states. This experience shaped his vision for a unified, powerful nation capable of commanding respect on the world stage.

5. Hamilton's Financial Genius Built American Prosperity

I have thought it my duty to exhibit things as they are, not as they ought to be.

Architect of American Finance. As the first Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton faced the daunting task of establishing a sound financial system for the new nation. He crafted a comprehensive plan that included funding the national debt, assuming state debts, creating a national bank, and establishing a system of tariffs and excise taxes.

Key Components:

• Funding the Debt: Establishing the creditworthiness of the new nation.
• Assumption of State Debts: Binding the states to the federal government.
• National Bank: Providing a stable currency and credit source.
• Tariffs and Excise Taxes: Generating revenue for the government.

Economic Vision. Hamilton's policies, though controversial, laid the foundation for American economic prosperity. He understood the importance of manufacturing, trade, and a strong financial system in creating a dynamic and self-sufficient nation.

6. Personal Scandals and Political Feuds Darkened Hamilton's Later Years

Men are rather reasoning than reasonable animals, for the most part governed by the impulse of passion.

The Reynolds Affair. Hamilton's career was marred by a scandalous affair with Maria Reynolds, which led to blackmail and public humiliation. The affair damaged his reputation and provided ammunition for his political enemies.

Feuds with Founding Fathers. Hamilton's strong opinions and combative personality led to bitter feuds with other prominent figures, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Aaron Burr. These conflicts often played out in the press, further tarnishing his image.

A Polarizing Figure. To this day, Hamilton remains a controversial figure in American history. His policies and beliefs continue to be debated, and his legacy is often viewed through the lens of partisan politics.

7. The Hamilton-Burr Duel: A Tragic Climax

Opinion, whether well or ill founded, is the governing principle of human affairs.

Political Rivalry. The animosity between Hamilton and Aaron Burr stemmed from their contrasting political views and their fierce competition for power in New York. Their rivalry reached a boiling point during the 1804 gubernatorial election, when Hamilton actively campaigned against Burr.

Affair of Honor. After Burr lost the election, he demanded satisfaction from Hamilton for disparaging remarks. Despite his personal aversion to dueling, Hamilton felt compelled to accept Burr's challenge to defend his honor.

Fatal Encounter. On July 11, 1804, the two men met at dawn on a dueling ground in Weehawken, New Jersey. Hamilton, adhering to his moral principles, deliberately misfired, while Burr shot and mortally wounded his longtime rival. Hamilton died the following day, leaving behind a legacy of brilliance, controversy, and unfulfilled potential.

8. Eliza Hamilton's Enduring Legacy: Justice for Her Hamilton

Justice shall be done to the memory of my Hamilton.

Preserving Hamilton's Legacy. After her husband's death, Eliza Hamilton dedicated her life to preserving his legacy and ensuring that his contributions to the nation were recognized. She collected his papers, supported his biographers, and defended his reputation against his detractors.

Philanthropic Work. Eliza also devoted herself to charitable causes, co-founding the New York Orphan Asylum Society and working tirelessly to improve the lives of widows, orphans, and the poor. Her philanthropic work demonstrated her deep compassion and commitment to social justice.

A Life of Service. Eliza Hamilton lived to the remarkable age of ninety-seven, witnessing the growth and development of the nation her husband had helped to create. Her life serves as a testament to the enduring power of love, loyalty, and service to others.

Last updated: March 16, 2025