The Intimate Life of Alexander Hamilton; Based Chiefly Upon Original Family Letters and Other Documents, Many of Which Have Never Been Published

by Allan McLane Hamilton

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1910 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER XIII THE DUEL There need be no speculation as to the cause of the duel. What has been said in previous chapters shows the forces that were at work for a very long time, but in a more pronounced way for at least two years before the event. Even if he had not wished to do so, Hamilton was unwillingly obliged, in the practice of his profession, to expose Burr's corrupt practices and the manner in which he swindled his clients; he had no choice. In political antagonism the worst offence was given, for Hamilton's attacks had been unremitting and bitter, and though undertaken because he believed the welfare of the nation demanded the defeat of Burr, he could expect no other ending than that which followed. While the correspondence directly connected with the sending of the challenge seemed forced and disingenuous upon Burr's part, and the issue was directly precipitated by the latter, he was undoubtedly goaded on by Hamilton's scathing denunciation, and it is surprising that he did not force the duel upon some much earlier occasion, as Hamilton was always free in his criticism, and wrote many letters and inspired many bitter newspaper attacks. What could be more provoking than the letter addressed to John Rutledge, and found afterward among the papers of Francis Hopkinson ?1 1 Century Magazine, vol. IX, p. 250. Alexander Ham1lton to John Rutledge (Confidential) New York, Jard. 4, 1801. My Dear S1r: My extreme anxiety about the ensuing election of President by the House of Representatives will excuse to you the liberty I take in addressing you concerning it without being consulted by you. Did you know Mr. Burr as well as I do, I should think it unnecessary. With your honest attachment to the Country and correctness of views, it would...

Genres: History, Nonfiction, American Revolution, Biography, American Revolutionary War

150 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 2006

Reviews

[Rue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS OMG!!! This book, in fact was written by Alexander Hamilton's own grandson, and it shows many details about his private life. I almost laughed hard at a point, since there was so much feeling it was scary. But this shows the actual personality of Hamilton, and his actual features. A lot of books said different things about his appearance, but in fact he had coppery-brown hair and deep blue eyes that would most likely make anyone fall in love. It is great, you should read it, end of story.

[Kyli · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the kindle edition which does not have the best formatting, however I've seen worse. This is a very interesting view of hamilton written by his Grandson a hundred years later, who was the son of Hamilton's youngest, Phillip, who was just a few years old when he died. We are presented a view of the man that is presented through family stories, and letters that have been kept in the family. Probably a bit biased, but an interesting read to see how those who loved him best saw him.

[Ozzie]

It was informative, but I felt I needed more preious knowledge in order to understand this subject fully.