About the Program

The Hamilton Education Program started as a collaborative effort between Lin-Manuel Miranda and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History to use the musical Hamilton as a vehicle for educational enrichment, bringing history alive for young audiences through the arts.

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Silhouette of Eliza from the musical Hamilton
The stage for Hamilton with stage lighting but empty

How it started

The Hamilton Education Program was created to integrate American history education with the arts by allowing high school students to experience the musical and delve into its history—engaging students in civics and inspiring a new generation of young historians. 

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The Curriculum

Students will learn how Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of Hamilton, incorporated primary sources into the songs he wrote for the show. Following Miranda’s process, students will create their own performance pieces. As they analyze primary sources and Hamilton song lyrics, they will develop literacy strategies for reading complex texts. The website provides a wealth of resources that introduce students to the people, events, and documents of the founding era.

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EduHam performers. One wearing a crown looking forlorn, the other looking exuberant waving a copy of the Declaration of Independence

Classroom Benefits

Create a free Gilder Lehrman account to access all the curricular materials. You can also share a classroom account with your students or children. In doing so, you’ll unlock an alternative way to teach history. While your history instruction will still be based on primary source documents, your students learn how to use those documents creatively and powerfully. 

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Which program is for me?

Teacher in front of a classroom with students raising their hands

Online

Any student, teacher, or parent can participate in the online EduHam program. You will have access to the research library and curricula and can also enter the competition or lottery to win a chance to see the show in person. All you need is a Gilder Lehrman account to get started.

Online Program Details
Students in the audience holding playbills

In-Person

Title I–eligible high schools and middle schools in and near New York City are eligible to participate in the in-person program. When your students complete the curriculum, they can attend a student matinee of Hamilton and a cast Q&A. Learn about the program requirements and how to apply for your school.

In-Person Program Details