Alexander Hamilton

Alexander Hamilton was an American statesman who was celebrated as a spokesman of responsible fiscal policies and, as the principal writer of the Federalist papers, of a strong central government. Hamilton was born in 1755 on the West Indian island of Nevis. He was the illegitimate son of James Hamilton, a Scottish trader. In 1774, Hamilton entered King's college (now Columbia University) and his political career began after he wrote two pamphlets that became widely known in 1774 and 1775.

In 1780, Hamilton married Elizabeth Schuyler, an heiress from New York. After serving in the Revolutionary war, Hamilton began to study law in Albany. He served in Congress from 1782-83 and then returned to his law practice, becoming one of the most successful lawyers in New York.
Hamilton endeavored to secure ratification of the Constitution through a collection of essays called "The Federalist Papers".

In 1789, Hamilton was appointed Secretary of Treasury under President Washington. Hamilton then instituted a series of reforms that still influence the US government today. In 1800, the election between Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr became heated when the two received equal electoral votes. Hamilton, then major general of the armed forces, weighed in on Jefferson's side and was instrumental in the defeat of Burr. This angered Burr and the man challenged Hamilton to a duel.

Although he strongly disapproved of dueling, Hamilton was obliged to accept and the two met on July 11th, 1804 in Weehawken, New Jersey. During the fight, Hamilton was mortally wounded and died the next day. Hamilton's country house, now known as Grange National Memorial is still located in New York City.