Alexander Hamilton

The principal characters in Alexander Hamilton seek power—or accept it—for different reasons. Hamilton came from humble beginnings in the Caribbean. He was accustomed to deprivation, and the injustice of slavery was in front of him from the beginning of his life. As he grew and studied, he became well-versed in history and political theory. From those studies, Hamilton gave himself the foundational knowledge that would allow him to become such an influential architect of American policy. But he also served in politics with ambition in mind. Hamilton’s legacy was important to him, but there are few signs in the book suggesting that he put his own long-term interests before those of the country. More overt was his pursuit of military glory. He aspired to a distinguished combat record and to the admiration of other men in the Continental Army. 

George Washington participated willingly and effectively in the war, but accepted the presidency with reluctance. He did not want the position that would grant him the greatest available power. This stands in great contrast to men like George Clinton, Aaron Burr, and Talleyrand, who sought to glorify their names while enriching themselves. They were unabashedly ambitious. 

Thomas Jefferson alleged that he did not want the presidency, but went to great lengths to secure the necessary votes for himself. John Adams spent the entirety of his term complaining that everyone was working against him, but he nevertheless campaigned for a second term, despite the misery that the office brought to him. 

The founding fathers detailed in the book accomplished much. They weren’t ostentatious in their pursuit of influence and power yet managed to wield both considerably. 

Even Hamilton’s most ardent supporters were frequently confused by his inability to remain silent when insulted. He would respond to his critics in scathing publications and letters. When that did not suffice, despite his antipathy towards the custom of dueling, he was not above challenging others to duels in matters of honor. 

His massive critique of John Adams was a response to what he perceived as an unjust blight on his own reputation. The pamphlet backfired on Hamilton, however, and made him look unhinged and obsessed among both his admirers and detractors. The articles in which he detailed his affair with Maria Reynolds were also a misguided, if well-intentioned, attempt to defend his public reputation and legacy. 

Hamilton was not alone in his insistence that honor be preserved at all costs. The use of the word “rascal” led to the duel that resulted in his son’s death. James Monroe was willing to duel with Hamilton when Hamilton accused him of lying about Monroe’s breaking their confidentiality agreement. 

Hamilton’s fatal duel with Burr was the consequence of Burr trying to take revenge on Hamilton for comments he had made about his “despicable actions,” and also about his efforts to thwart Burr’s election for the governor of New York. This was ironic, given that Burr’s reputation was already beyond repair, and that he showed no inclination of changing his licentious and unscrupulous behaviors. 

Men like Hamilton wished to cultivate grand legacies of integrity that would outlive them and were willing to risk their lives and careers in politics rather than accept libel and slander.