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The Duel Between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton
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In July of 1804, the Union was shocked to learn that Alexander Hamilton had been killed in a duel with Aaron Burr. The struggle between Burr and Hamilton had been going on for many years. Hamilton was convinced that Burr was untrustworthy—an instinct that turned out to be true as Burr was tried for treason several years later. So whenever Hamilton had a chance, he tried to interfere with Burr's plans.
In the early part of 1804 near the end of his term as vice president, Burr ran for governor of New York. He lost the election, and was angered by a report that Hamilton had said some “despicable” things about him. Burr was sure that Hamilton had ruined his chances in the election, and challenged him to a duel. In order to avoid the fight, Hamilton would have had to publicly state that Burr was an honest man and apologize for his comments. Hamilton refused, and on July 11, 1804, the two met to duel in Weehawken, New Jersey. Burr was the winner, shooting and killing Hamilton.
Dueling was illegal in New York and New Jersey, and Burr was immediately charged with Hamilton's murder. The charges were later dropped, however, and Burr returned to Washington to continue his political career despite having murdered his rival.
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The Duel Between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton
p.49
