Historical Research Library
Discover the people, events, and key documents that shaped the Founding Era.
Explore our Resources
Filter by person, event, document, and theme.
Thomas Jefferson on Manumitting Slaves, 1789
Letter sent from Paris reflecting on freeing slaves—revealing his conflicting beliefs on liberty and equality amid the revolution
Supporting Document
Hamilton’s Report on the Subject of Manufactures, 1791
The third part of Alexander Hamilton’s vision for the economy advocated industrialization, tariffs, and government support for infrastructure
Key Document
George Washington’s Farewell Address, 1796
Washington’s warning against political divisions and foreign entanglements
Key Document
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
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
Nathanael Greene
Trusted aide to George Washington known for strategic brilliance and Revolutionary War victories
Person
Alexander Hamilton
A poor immigrant from the Caribbean who became a key figure in the Revolution and in establishing the US government
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