Alexander Hamilton

Biography

Alexander Hamilton was born on the Caribbean island of Nevis around 1757, the illegitimate son of a Scottish merchant and a French Huguenot mother. After being orphaned at a young age and demonstrating remarkable intelligence through his eloquent writing about a devastating hurricane, local benefactors raised funds to send him to the American colonies for education in 1772.

Hamilton quickly became involved in the Revolutionary cause, writing influential pamphlets while still a teenager at King's College (now Columbia University). He served as an artillery captain in the Continental Army, distinguishing himself at battles including Trenton and Princeton, before becoming aide-de-camp to General George Washington in 1777. This close relationship with Washington would define his political career.

As the first Secretary of the Treasury from 1789 to 1795, Hamilton established the financial foundation of the new nation, creating the national banking system, assuming state debts, and promoting manufacturing and commerce. His vision of a strong federal government and robust financial system shaped America's economic development. He died in 1804 following a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's most brilliant political minds.

Major Works & Series

Literary Significance & Legacy

Hamilton's political writings represent the pinnacle of American constitutional thought and practical statecraft. His contributions to The Federalist Papers established the theoretical foundation for American federalism and remain the most cited source for understanding the original intent of the Constitution. His clear, logical prose and ability to translate complex political theory into practical policy made him uniquely effective among the Founding Fathers.

Beyond political theory, Hamilton's financial reports and economic writings created the blueprint for modern American capitalism. His vision of a diverse, industrial economy powered by strong financial institutions proved prophetic, laying the groundwork for America's economic dominance. His influence extends far beyond his era, with modern economists and political scientists continuing to study his innovative approaches to public finance and federal governance.

Best Starting Points

• Federalist No. 1
  Hamilton's introduction to the entire Federalist Papers series, outlining the case for the Constitution and setting the tone for America's foundational political discourse.
• Report on Public Credit
  His first major Treasury report that established the principle of federal assumption of state debts and created America's creditworthiness.
• Federalist No. 70
  His brilliant defense of a strong, unitary executive that shaped the American presidency.
• A Full Vindication of the Measures of Congress
  His first major pamphlet, written at age 17, defending the Continental Congress and showcasing his early political genius.

Famous Characters

• Publius
  The collective pseudonym used by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay for The Federalist Papers, chosen to honor the Roman who helped establish the Roman Republic.
• Caesar
  An earlier pseudonym Hamilton used in newspaper articles defending the Constitution before adopting the more successful 'Publius' persona.
• The American Pericles
  A comparison made by admirers who saw Hamilton as the architect of American greatness, like the Athenian statesman who built classical Athens.
• The Little Lion
  A nickname reflecting both his small stature and fierce political courage in debates and writings.