Alexander Hamilton (Review)
After reading Hamilton, it is little surprise that Chernow's book inspired the musical that has so enthralled the U.S. I have read more books on Thomas Jefferson than any other historical figure, but this is the first full biography I read on Alexander Hamilton. I largely knew of him as Jefferson's foil without a clear picture that expanded beyond his scandalous reputation and his leadership as the first Secretary of the Treasury. Even his service in the Revolutionary War was veiled to me. Fortunately, Ron Chernow provided this tome that is sizeable yet enthralling. Even if you have little interest in the Revolutionary War, the building of America, or politics, this book is filled with excellent drama that still resonates today.
Beyond my initial overview, here are a few thoughts I jotted down during my reading:
In the 14th Century, the knights decided that it was unchivalrous to use archers that would fight the battles for them from afar. During the American revolution, the British soldiers thought that it was uncivil for the Americans to hide and fight with a guerrilla-style of battle. It is interesting how different developments have skeptics even when the advancements show themselves superior.
Hamilton urged Washington to strengthen the Continental Congress’s power to raise funds by urging Washington to use the army veterans’ discontentedness on pensions to spur congressional action. Washington responded: “the army is a dangerous instrument to play with.” It was here Washington noted Hamilton’s Machiavellian streak. I read this as President Trump was discussing military parades and military action. Washington's words of caution are full of wisdom today.
George Clinton and the anti-federalists took to attacking Hamilton on personal grounds when they failed to best him on intellectual grounds during the fight for ratification of the constitution. They attached his parentage and birthplace more so than his ideas. The dirtiness of politics is not a new concept in America.
As the XYZ Scandal deescalated and the standing army faded, Hamilton seemed to grow and paranoia and insecurity. After it was apparent Adams would lose to Jefferson on the upcoming presidential election, Hamilton set out to recruit Pinckney as the top Federalist choice. It was here, Chernow notes that Hamilton was a great theorist and administrator. But he lacked gifts in practical politics. It’s important to note the difference between the two skills.
Needless to say, Chernow provided a wealth of information that warrants exploration. He did so in a wonderfully interesting way. I had this book as my personally required reading before I see the musical this summer, and I only wish I hadn't waited to long to read this excellent biography.
