Hamilton's Life and Legacy Overview. Instructions for Experiential Opportunities and Reflection Notes 1: The Concept of “Founding Father” in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton (2020) 1) First of all, watch Hamilton and enjoy it! It is available on Disney+ (www.disneyplus.com) It was directed by Thomas Kail and recorded in 2020. The main creator of the musical and movie is Lin-Manuel Miranda. 2) Topic: The concept of “Founding Father'' has been central in American history since the establishment of the United States. In a way, the Founding Fathers have experienced an evolution from being mere historical figures to being considered semi-gods (“heroes”) that forged a new world: they have undergone a process that we could call “mythification” in the sense that they were considered as an indispensable part of the origin story of the United States. Alexander Hamilton is one of the key figures of that group, and as such is enjoying a new popularity thanks to the famous Broadway musical. After watching the movie, write a brief essay around these questions: What makes a Founding Father? What is the contemporary image of Alexander Hamilton that the musical offers? What aspects of his “Founding Father being” are highlighted? What other Founding Fathers are portrayed in the movie? Are they considered positive or negative? What is your opinion about the historical concept of “Founding Father”? 3) Format: Google Doc, Times New Roman 12, double-spaced. 4) Extension: 500 words is the minimum, but you are welcome to write as much more as you want! 5) DUE: Wednesday, March 19, 2025. 6) Have fun and explore your own ideas and points of view!

Mar 7, 2025

Hamilton Lecture Notes

Introduction

  • A brief on Hamilton’s beginnings:
    • "Bastard orphan" from the Caribbean.
    • Worked hard and smarter to become a hero and scholar.
    • By 14, was placed in charge of a trading charter.

Rise to Prominence

  • Hamilton's drive:
    • Hard work and intelligence.
    • Writing as a medium to express himself and build his reputation.
    • The story spreading of his talent.

Key Relationships and Events

  • Aaron Burr:

    • Hamilton meets Burr seeking advice.
    • Differences in ideologies: Burr's advice is to keep quiet, Hamilton disagrees.

  • John Laurens, Hercules Mulligan, and Marquis de Lafayette:

    • Hamilton's close allies in revolution.

  • The Schuyler Sisters:

    • Importance of Eliza, Angelica, and Peggy in Hamilton’s life.

Revolutionary War

  • Hamilton’s role and ambition during the war:

    • Desire to prove worth through military action.
    • Close work with George Washington.

  • Battle of Yorktown:

    • Crucial victory for the revolution, aided by Hamilton’s strategy.

Political Career

  • Secretary of Treasury:

    • Establishing the first National Bank and financial systems.
    • Creation of a Federalist financial system.

  • Conflicts:

    • Political rift leading to a two-party system.
    • Contentious relationship with Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr.

Personal Life and Scandals

  • The Reynolds Pamphlet:

    • Public admission of an affair to counter blackmail, leading to personal and political fallout.

  • Family Ties:

    • Marriage to Eliza Schuyler.
    • Death of Hamilton’s son Phillip in a duel, deeply impacting Hamilton.

Dueling and Death

  • Duel with Aaron Burr:
    • Long-standing rivalry culminates in a fatal duel.
    • Hamilton shot and killed, leaving a complex legacy.

Legacy and Historical Impact

  • Founding Father’s Contributions:

    • Establishment of crucial financial systems.
    • Contributions to the Constitution through Federalist Papers.

  • Personal Reflections:

    • Hamilton remembered for his writings and ideas.
    • His life story told through the arts and historical accounts.