Alexander Hamilton

Born on Nevis in the Caribbean, Alexander Hamilton came to New York as a teenager after local supporters recognized his talent. During the American Revolution, he served in the Continental Army and became a close aide to George Washington, earning a reputation for energy, intelligence, and striking skill with words.

After the war, he became one of the strongest voices for a more powerful national government. He helped promote the U.S. Constitution and was one of the main authors of The Federalist Papers, a series of essays that argued for its ratification.

As the first U.S. secretary of the treasury, he laid much of the groundwork for the country’s early financial system, including plans for public credit and a national bank. Hamilton remained a major and controversial political force until his death in 1804, after a duel with Aaron Burr in New York.