Historical Research Library

Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era. 

Singers and dancers focused on Chris Jackson playing George Washington

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Theodosia Burr (Mrs. Joseph Alston) by John Vanderlyn, 1802-1803 (Yale University Art Gallery)

Theodosia Burr Alston

Daughter of Aaron Burr and prominent figure in early American society who disappeared at sea in 1813

Person
Aaron Burr, 1836 (Library of Congress)

Aaron Burr

Complex and controversial early American politician known for his fatal duel with Alexander Hamilton

Person
"Mrs. John Barker Church, Son Philip, and Servant," by John Trumbull, 1785 (Private Collection)

Angelica Schuyler Church

The charming, intelligent, politically active oldest daughter of Philip Schuyler and sister of Elizabeth Hamilton

Person
John Laurens, by Charles Willson Peale, 1780 (National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution)

John Laurens

South Carolina officer and close friend of Alexander Hamilton who advocated abolition and recruitment of Black troops

Person
Hand colored portrait engraving of a middle-age Dolley Madison, drawn by J. Heravring after J. Wood. ca 1830-1880 (The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History)

Dolley Madison

The influential First Lady who saved the portrait of George Washington during the War of 1812

Person
Paul Revere, 1887 (Library of Congress)

Paul Revere

Boston patriot, famed for his “midnight ride,” whose art turned a local skirmish into a “Massacre”

Person