Birth of Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was born on January 11, either in 1755 or 1757, on the island of Nevis in the British West Indies. His exact birth year is disputed.
1755 or 1757
1768
Orphaned at a Young Age
Hamilton's mother, Rachel Faucette, died, leaving him orphaned. This event set the stage for his eventual move to the American colonies.
1772
Move to New York
Thanks to his impressive writing skills, Hamilton was sent to New York to pursue an education. He attended King's College (now Columbia University).
1776
Joined the Revolutionary War
Hamilton joined the Continental Army and served as an aide-de-camp to General George Washington, playing a significant role in the American Revolutionary War.
1780
Marriage to Elizabeth Schuyler
Alexander Hamilton married Elizabeth Schuyler, the daughter of a prominent New York family, further solidifying his social and political connections.
1781
Battle of Yorktown
Hamilton led a successful assault during the Siege of Yorktown, which was a decisive victory for the American forces in the Revolutionary War.
1782
Elected to the Continental Congress
Hamilton was elected as a representative to the Continental Congress, where he began to influence national policy.
1784
Founded the Bank of New York
Hamilton founded the Bank of New York, one of the earliest and most successful banks in the United States.
1787
Federalist Papers
Hamilton co-authored the Federalist Papers, a series of essays advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
1789
First Secretary of the Treasury
President George Washington appointed Alexander Hamilton as the first Secretary of the Treasury, where he established the foundations of the American financial system.
1790
Report on Public Credit
Hamilton presented his Report on Public Credit, proposing the federal assumption of state debts and the establishment of a national bank.
1791
Establishment of the First Bank of the United States
Hamilton's financial plan led to the creation of the First Bank of the United States, which played a crucial role in stabilizing the American economy.
1795
Resignation from Treasury
Hamilton resigned as Secretary of the Treasury but continued to influence American politics and finance through his writings and advisory roles.
1804
Duel with Aaron Burr
Hamilton was mortally wounded in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr on July 11, 1804, and died the following day.
2015
Hamilton: An American Musical
The musical "Hamilton," created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, premiered on Broadway, bringing renewed interest and acclaim to Alexander Hamilton's life and legacy.
