Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
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Presidential Election of 1800
A fierce contest between John Adams, Charles Pinckney, Thomas Jefferson, and Aaron Burr that was marked by party polarization and scandal—testing the peaceful transfer of power
Event
Hamilton-Burr Duel, 1804
A fatal confrontation between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr that stemmed from political and personal animosities and shaped American political history
Event
Samuel Adams
One of the first Americans to challenge British rule and resist their policies in the 1760s and 1770s
Person
Theodosia Burr Alston
Daughter of Aaron Burr and prominent figure in early American society who disappeared at sea in 1813
Person
Aaron Burr
Complex and controversial early American politician known for his fatal duel with Alexander Hamilton
Person
Angelica Schuyler Church
The charming, intelligent, politically active oldest daughter of Philip Schuyler and sister of Elizabeth Hamilton
Person
Paul Cuffe
Black and Wampanoag businessman and shipbuilder who advocated for abolition, civil rights, and African colonization
Person
Alexander Hamilton
A poor immigrant from the Caribbean who became a key figure in the Revolution and in establishing the US government
Person
Philip Hamilton
Eldest son of Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton who died in a duel defending his father’s honor
Person
Elizabeth "Eliza" Schuyler Hamilton
Daughter of the patriot general Philip Schuyler and wife of Alexander Hamilton who secured his legacy after his death
Person
George III
King of Great Britain viewed as a tyrant by colonists and a symbol of imperial rule
Person
Patrick Henry
A leading figure in the Revolutionary era in Virginia, known for his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech
Person