Alexander Hamilton: A Detailed Biography

Alexander Hamilton (1755/57–1804) was the architect of America’s financial system, chief author of the Federalist Papers, and the only Founding Father to die in a duel. Immigrant, war hero, Treasury genius, and visionary of a strong central government, he shaped the United States more than any non-president. This biography covers his Caribbean childhood, Revolutionary War service, creation of the Treasury, and fatal duel with Aaron Burr, as documented by the U.S. National Park Service and the Library of Congress.

Early Life in the Caribbean

Orphaned in Nevis and St. Croix

Born on January 11, 1755 (or 1757) in Charlestown, Nevis, Hamilton was the illegitimate son of Scottish merchant James Hamilton and Rachel Faucette. Orphaned at 13 after his mother’s death, he worked as a clerk and showed such brilliance that local merchants funded his education in New York, as documented by the U.S. National Park Service.

Revolutionary War and Rise

Washington’s Aide-de-Camp

At King’s College (now Columbia), Hamilton wrote pro-independence pamphlets. He commanded artillery at Trenton and Princeton, then became Washington’s chief aide-de-camp (1777–1781), writing many of Washington’s most important letters, as recorded by the Mount Vernon.

Federalist Leader and Treasury Secretary

The Federalist Papers and Constitution

Hamilton wrote 51 of the 85 Federalist essays (1787–1788), the most powerful defence of the new Constitution. At the Constitutional Convention he advocated a strong executive.

First Secretary of the Treasury (1789–1795)

Appointed by Washington, he created the First Bank of the United States, assumed state debts, established the U.S. Mint, and wrote five landmark Reports (Public Credit, National Bank, Manufactures, etc.) that built the American economy, as detailed by the U.S. Treasury Department.

Personal Life and Scandals

In 1780 he married Elizabeth (“Eliza”) Schuyler, daughter of General Philip Schuyler; they had eight children. In 1791–1792 he had an affair with Maria Reynolds; when exposed in 1797 he published the “Reynolds Pamphlet” to clear his name of corruption charges — at huge personal cost.

Rivalry with Jefferson and Burr

Hamilton and Jefferson clashed over national banking and foreign policy. Hamilton’s opposition helped defeat Burr’s 1804 New York gubernatorial bid, prompting Burr’s challenge to a duel.

The Duel and Death

On July 11, 1804, Hamilton and Burr met at Weehawken, New Jersey. Hamilton deliberately fired into the air (“delope”); Burr shot him in the abdomen. Hamilton died 31 hours later on July 12, 1804, aged 49 (or 47). He was buried in Trinity Churchyard, Manhattan, as recounted by the Smithsonian Magazine.

Death and Legacy

Alexander Hamilton’s Enduring Impact

Though vilified by Jeffersonians, Hamilton’s financial system made America creditworthy and industrial. His vision of a strong federal government and energetic executive remains central to the U.S. system. The Coast Guard, New York Post (founded by Hamilton), and the Broadway musical Hamilton (2015) keep his memory alive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Alexander Hamilton

Why Is Alexander Hamilton Famous?

For founding the U.S. financial system, writing most of the Federalist Papers, and creating the First Bank of the United States.

How Did Alexander Hamilton Die?

Mortally wounded in a duel with Aaron Burr on July 11, 1804; died the next day.

Where Was Alexander Hamilton Born?

Charlestown, Nevis, British West Indies, January 11, 1755 or 1757.

What Were the Federalist Papers?

85 essays (Hamilton wrote ~60) promoting ratification of the Constitution.

Was Alexander Hamilton a President?

No — he was the first Secretary of the Treasury and never president.

Who Was Eliza Schuyler Hamilton?

His wife (married 1780); they had eight children. She preserved his legacy for 50 years after his death.

Why Did Hamilton and Burr Duel?

Long political rivalry and a leaked letter suggesting Hamilton called Burr “despicable.”