Burr to Hamilton, June 18, 1804

N York 18 June 1804

Sir,

I send for your perusal a letter signed Ch. D. Cooper which, though apparently published some time ago, has but very recently come to my knowledge. Mr. Van Ness, who does me the favor to deliver this, will point out to you that clause of the letter to which I particularly request your attention.

You must perceive, Sir, the necessity of a prompt and unqualified acknowledgement or denial of the use of any expressions which could warrant the assertions of Dr. Cooper.

I have the honor to be
Your Obdt. S^t

1. Burr

Hamilton to Burr, June 20, 1804

N York 20 June 1804

Sir:

I have maturely reflected on the subject of your letter of the 18th Instant, and the more I have reflected, the more I have become convinced that I could not without manifest impropriety make the avowal or disavowal which you seem to think necessary.

The clause pointed out by Mr. Van Ness is in these terms: “I could detail to you a still more despicable opinion which General Hamilton has expressed of Mr. Burr.”[1] To endeavor to discover the meaning of this declaration, I was obliged to seek in the antecedent part of the letter for the opinion to which it referred, as having been already disclosed. I found it in these words: “Genl. Hamilton and Judge Kent have declared in substance that they looked upon Mr. Burr to be a dangerous man, and one who ought not to be trusted with the reins of Government.” The language of Dr. Cooper plainly implies that he considered this opinion of you, which he attributes to me, as a despicable one; but he affirms that I have expressed some other still more despicable; without, however, mentioning to whom, when or where. ‘Tis evident that the phrase “still more despicable” admits of infinite shades from very light to very dark. How am I to judge of the degree intended. Or how should I annex any precise idea to language so vague?

 

 

 

Between Gentlemen despicable and still more despicable[2] are not worth the pains of a distinction. When, therefore, you do not interrogate me as to the opinion which is specifically ascribed to me, I must conclude that you view it as within the limits to which the animadversions[3] of political opponents, upon each other, may justifiably extend; and

 

consequently as not warranting the idea of it which Dr. Cooper appears to entertain. If so, what precise inference

 

 

could you draw as a guide for your future conduct, were I to acknowledge that I had expressed an opinion of you, still more despicable[4] than the one which is particularized? How could you be sure that even this opinion had exceeded the bounds which you would yourself deem admissible between political opponents?

 

 

But I forbear further comment on the embarrassment to which the requisition you have made naturally leads.[5] The occasion forbids a more ample illustration, though nothing would be more easy than to pursue it.

Repeating that I can not reconcile it with propriety to make the acknowledgment or denial you desire, I will add that I deem it inadmissible on principle, to consent to be interrogated as to the justness of the inferences which may be drawn by others, from whatever I may have said of a political opponent in the course of a fifteen years competition. If there were no other objection to it, this is sufficient, that it would tend to expose my sincerity and delicacy

injurious imputations from every person who may at any time have conceived that import of my expressions differently from what I may then have intended, or may afterwards recollect.[6]

 

I stand ready to avow or disavow promptly[7] and explicitly any precise or definite opinion which I may be charged with having declared to any gentleman. More than this cannot fitly be expected from me; and especially it cannot reasonably be expected that I shall enter into an explanation upon a basis so vague as that which you have adopted. I trust upon more reflection you will see the matter in the same light with me. If not, I can only regret the circumstances and must abide the consequences.

The publication of Dr. Cooper was never seen by me ‘till after the receipt of your letter.

Sir, I have the honor to be
Your Obdt. S^t

1. Hamilton

Burr to Hamilton, June 21, 1804

N York 21 June, 1804.

Sir,

Your letter of the 20th inst. has been this day received. Having considered it attentively, I regret to find in it nothing of that sincerity and delicacy which you profess to value.[8]

Political opposition can never absolve gentlemen from the necessity of a rigid adherence to the laws of honor and the rules of decorum. I neither claim such privilege nor indulge it in others.

The common sense of mankind affixes to the epithet adopted by Dr. Cooper the idea of dishonor. It has been publicly

 

 

applied to me under the sanction of your name. The question is not whether he has understood the meaning of the word or has used it according to syntax and with grammatical accuracy, but whether you have authorized this application either directly or by uttering expression or opinion derogatory to my honor.[9] The time “when” is in your own

 

knowledge but no way material to me, as the calumny[10] has now just been disclosed so as to become the subject of my notice and as the effect is present and palpable.

 

Your letter has furnished me with new reasons for requiring a definite reply[11].

I have the honor to be
Your Obdt. S^t

1. Burr

Hamilton to Burr, June 22, 1804

N York 22 June 1804

Sir,

Your first letter, in a style too peremptory, made a demand, in my opinion, unprecedented and unwarrantable.[12] My answer, pointing out the embarrassment, gave you an opportunity to take a less exceptionable course. You have not

 

 

chosen to do it, but by your last letter, received this day, containing expressions indecorous and improper[13],

 

 

 

 

you have increased the difficulties to explanation[14], intrinsically incident to the nature of your application.

If by a “definite reply” you mean the direct avowal or disavowal required in your first letter, I have no other answer to give than that which has already been given. If you mean anything different admitting of greater latitude, it is requisite you should explain.[15]

I have the honor to be, Sir
Your Obdt. S^t

1. Hamilton

 

Van Ness to Pendleton[16], June 26, 1804

Sir,

The letter which you yesterday delivered me and your subsequent communication in Col. Burr’s opinion evince no disposition on the part of Genl. Hamilton to come to a satisfactory accommodation. The injury complained of and the

 

reparation expected are so definitely expressed in his (Col. B.’s) letter of the 21st Inst. that there is not perceived a necessity for further explanation on his part[17]. The difficulty that would result from confining the inquiry to any particular times and occasions must be manifest. The denial of a specified conversation only, would leave strong implications that on other occasions improper language had been used. When and where injurious expressions and opinions have been uttered by Genl. Hamilton must be best known to him and of him only does Col. Burr think it proper to enquire.

No denial or declaration will be satisfactory unless it be general so as to wholly exclude the idea that rumors derogatory to Col. Burr’s honor can have originated with Genl. Hamilton or have been fairly inferred from anything he has said. A definite reply to a requisition of this nature is demanded in Col. Burr’s letter of the 21st Inst. This being refused, invites the alternative alluded to in Genl. H.’s letter of the 20th Inst. It was demanded by the position in which

 

the controversy was placed by Genl. H. on the 22nd Inst., and I was immediately furnished with a communication demanding a personal interview[18].

The necessity of this measure has not in the opinion of Col. Burr been diminished by the General’s last letter or any subsequent communication which has been received and I am again instructed to deliver you a message as soon as

 

it may be convenient for you to receive it. I beg, therefore, you will have the politeness to inform me at what hour I shall wait on you.

Your most obt. & very hum. Servt.

1. P. Van Ness

[19]

[1] Is the letter about Hamilton

[2] Hamilton just mentions the implications of “still more despicable” but then he says that those implications do not matter. Why does he mention it in the first place?

 

[3] Means criticism

[4] Uses the phrase “still more despicable” again

[5]  Saying this make it seem like he is saying that the statement was nothing bad

[6] .  It seems like he keeps claiming that his statements were taken the wrong way, but he refuse to say what he meant

[7]  Earlier he said that he could not avow or disavow the opinion statement burr asked him to look at

[8] I agree his letter seemed very insincere

[9] Even though I agree with Burr, is he really allowed to personally question Hamilton about his statement? Is Hamilton not replying because of legal problems?

[10]  Meaning: the act of damaging the good reputation of someone

[11]   Burr says this because Hamilton did claim that he knew what he meant when he said the statement that Burr asked about

[12] In my opinion, Burr’s “demand” was very professional and sincere. His language seemed appropriate (unlike Hamilton’s language)

 

[13] He keeps taking offense to Burr’s letter and claiming that they are “improper” and “unwarrantable”, but Burr’s letters are very

[14] Hamilton also claims that he is finding it hard to explain but never provides any explanation for what Burr is asking about

[15] Hamilton is probably trying to find excuses not to answer Burr because what he meant in the statement would make him look bad

[16] Who are they?

[17] Does this means is on Burr’s?

[18] Who asked for the personal interview?

[19] Is Pendleton the one dealing with the claims between Burr and Hamilton?

Works cited

 

Washington, G. (1796). George Washington’s Farewell Address.

 

Van Ness, William P. Received by Nathaniel Pendleton, 26 June 1804, New York, New York.

 

Cooper, Charles D. Received by Philip Schuyler, 23 Apr. 1804, Albany, New York

 

Burr, Aaron. “Hamilton to Burr.” Received by Alexander Hamilton, 22 June 1804, New York, New York.

 

Hamilton, Alexander. Burr, Aaron. “Wikisource, the Free Online Library.” Received by Aaron Burr, Wikisource, the Free Online Library, 20 June 1804, en.wikisource.org/wiki/Hamilton–Burr_duel_correspondences.

 

“Alexander Hamilton Chronology.” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/alexander-hamilton-chronology/.

Gerson, Michael. “Overcoming Adversity: The Childhood of Alexander Hamilton Page 3.” Varsity Tutors, www.varsitytutors.com/earlyamerica/early-america-review/volume-6/alexander-hamilton-childhood-3.

 

Hamilton, Alexander, James Madison, John Jay. “The Federalist Papers.” The Federalist Papers, New York Press, 1787. www.let.rug.nl/usa/documents/1786-1800/the-federalist-papers/.

 

“Alexander Hamilton.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 June 2018,        en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Hamilton.

 

Presidency.” Journal of the Early Republic, vol. 31, no. 4, Winter2011, pp. 553-598. EBSCOhost, proxy.kennesaw.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=67091090&site=eds-live&scope=site

 

“Competing Visions: Federalists and Democrat-Republicans.” Lumen, Open SUNY Textbooks, courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ushistory1os2xmaster/chapter/competing-visions-federalists-and-democratic-republicans/.

 

Hamilton, Alexander, James Madison, John Jay. “The Federalist Papers.” The Federalist

 

Hamilton, Alexander. “Hamilton–Burr Duel Correspondences.” Received by Aaron Burr, Hamilton–Burr Duel Correspondences, 20 June 1804, en.wikisource.org/wiki/Hamilton–Burr_duel_correspondences.

 

“Kent Family Papers, 1785-1901. .” The Columbine Shooting Case Study, Quartz, www.columbia.edu/cu/lweb/archival/collections/ldpd_4078978/index.html.

“The Duel.” Depression-Era Soup Kitchens, Online Highways LLC, 2018, www.u-s-history.com/pages/h494.html.

 

Owen, Diana. “New Media and Political Campaigns.” Oxford Handbooks, Oxford University Press, 2 Apr. 2018, www.oxfordhandbooks.com/view/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199793471.001.0001/oxfordhb-9780199793471-e-016.

“Charles D. Cooper.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 19 June 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_D._Cooper.

“James Kent.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 17 June 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Kent.

“New York Gubernatorial Election, 1804.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 16 June 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_gubernatorial_election,_1804.

Letters from Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler

By Ye Jun Kim

[Camp near Dobbs Ferry, New York, July 10, 1781]

The day before yesterday, my angel, I arrived here, but for the want of an opportunity could not write you sooner^[1]. Indeed, I know of none now, but shall send this to the Quarter Master General to be forwarded by the first conveyance to the care of Col. Hughes^[2]. Finding when I came here that nothing was said on the subject of a command, I wrote the General a letter and enclosed him my commission^[3]. This morning Tilghman came to me in his name, pressed me to retain my commission, with an assurance that he would endeavor by all means to give me a command nearly such as I could have desired in the present circumstances of the army^[4]. Though I know my Betsy would be happy to hear I had rejected this proposal, it is a pleasure my reputation would not permit me to afford her^[5]. I consented to retain my commission and accept my command^[6].

I hope my beloved Betsy will dismiss all apprehensions for my safety^[7]; unhappily for public affairs, there seems to be little prospect of activity, and if there should be Heaven will certainly be propitious to any attachment so tender, so genuine as ours^[8]. Heaven will restore me to the bosom of my love and permit me to enjoy with new relish the delights which are centered there^[9]. It costs me a great deal to be absent from them, but the privation is certainly only temporary^[10]. I impatiently long to hear from you the state of your mind since our painful separation^[11]. Be as happy as you can, I entreat you, my amiable, my beloved wife. But let not absence deprive me of the least particle of your affection^[12]. Always remember those tender proofs I have so frequently given you of mine and preserve for me unabated the only blessing which can make life of any value to me^[13]…

 

Head of Elk, [Maryland] September 6, 1781.

Yesterday, my lovely wife, I wrote to you, inclosing you a letter in one to your father, to the care of Mr. Morris^[14]. To-morrow the post sets out, and to-morrow we embark for Yorktown^[15]. I cannot refuse myself the pleasure of writing you a few lines. Constantly uppermost in my thoughts and affections, I am happy only when my moments are devoted to some office that respects you^[16]. I would give the world to be able to tell you all I feel and all I wish, but consult your own heart and you will know mine^[17]. What a world will soon be between us! To support the idea, all my fortitude is insufficient^[18]. What must be the case with you, who have the most female of female hearts^[19]? I sink at the perspective of your distress, and I look to heaven to be your guardian and supporter^[20]. Circumstances that have just come to my knowledge, assure me that our operations will be expeditious, as well as our success certain^[21]. Early in November, as I promised you, we shall certainly meet^[22]. Cheer yourself with this idea, and with the assurance of never more being separated^[23]. Every day confirms me in the intention of renouncing public life, and devoting myself wholly to you^[24]. Let others waste their time and their tranquility in a vain pursuit of power and glory; be it my object to be happy in a quiet retreat with my better angel^[25].

A Hamilton

 

[Camp before Yorktown, Virginia, October 10, 1781. On October 12, 1781,^[26] Hamilton wrote to Elizabeth Hamilton: “I wrote you two days since.” Letter not found.]

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

1. Early in 1871, Hamilton requested a position in the military, hoping to ensure a spot and win glory on the battle field, since the end of the war was imminent. However, Washington’s lukewarm responses encouraged Hamilton to ride to Dobbs Ferry.
2. The Quarter Master General, Nathaniel Greene, was hesitant on accepting the Quarter Master position at first, because he was a businessman and thought that it didn’t prepare him for a job regarding the military.
3. After arriving at Dobbs Ferry looking for a military position, Hamilton had written a resignation letter since there weren’t any military roles he could find.
4. Tilghman did not accept Hamilton’s resignation and assured Hamilton that Washington would aspire to find a position for Hamilton here “by all means”. Later in the month, Washington comes back to Dobbs Ferry and grants Hamilton the command of a New York light infantry battalion in control under Colonel Alexander Scammell.
5. Although Hamilton was liked by a lot of people, there were some who did not like Hamilton, one of which was John Adams. Adams much rather preferred Aaron Burr to be in a general position, but Washington did not appoint Burr as general. This led to the relationship between Hamilton and Burr to become more hostile.
6. Since he did go all the way to Dobbs Ferry in hopes for a position, after the struggle, when he was offered a position, he was able to retain the resignation and decide to remain at Dobbs Ferry.
7. Betsy is Elizabeth Schuyler’s childhood nickname. While Alexander Hamilton was away, “Betsy” stayed at parent’s home in Albany. There, Hamilton wrote her letter, this being one of the many he wrote, urging her not to worry about his safety and confidential military secrets.
8. The quote, “Heaven will certainly be propitious to any attachment…”, implies that God will be on his side in the Revolution if any activities or disputes come up to end the war.
9. Hamilton seems to be very poetic when he speaks to Elizabeth Schuyler and expresses his feelings for her. Hamilton says, “Heaven will restore me to the bosom of my love,” implying that God has made the couple a fate, referring to Elizabeth as the “bosom of my love”.
10. Hamilton knows the two being apart will only be temporary because he firmly believed that the war will end soon. However, he is still in pain in the fact that he is not able to enjoy the “delights” with his wife.
11. Right after marriage, the couple had to split due to Hamilton having to leave for the military. However, they soon got back together at New Windsor. They then moved to Albany, to Elizabeth’s parents’ house. A couple months after that, they had to separate again, Leaving Elizabeth at Albany while Hamilton left for Dobbs Ferry.
12. Here, Hamilton uses a hyperbole to ask her not to forget about him. He says, “let not absence deprive me of the least particle of your affection,” and to always remember the affections that Hamilton poured on her. One’s particle can’t simply be deprived, but in this context, Hamilton is just urging her to remember every part of the love he gave her.
13. The latter half of this sentence is also a hyperbole when Hamilton says, “blessing which can make life of any value to me,” to imply that the “tender proofs” the couple has shown each other is a great blessing and something they cannot forget about. However, if this sentence were to be taken literally, this means that if these blessings were not present, he would have not a purpose of life. This use of hyperbole leads the readers to conclude that the love Hamilton had for his wife was tremendous.
14. Hamilton not only wrote to Elizabeth Schuyler while he was away, but he also wrote to his father-in-law, and all the Schuyler sisters. This implies that he had good relations with all the members of his in-laws, adding to the reason why he writes to his wife with overpowering love and affection.
15. The start of the embark on Yorktown began by encircling Cornwallis and Yorktown with both colonists and French soldiers. About a month and a week after the start of the surrounding of the location, the siege began, ending up leading to the end of the Revolutionary War.
16. Hamilton reminds his wife of his unrelenting love and how she is in every piece of his life. He says, “I am happy only when my moments are devoted to some office that respects you,” meaning that he is not willing to work with people that doesn’t respect his wife as well.
17. The phrase, “I would give the world to be able to tell you all I feel and all I wish,” is a hyperbole to once again express Hamilton’s love for Elizabeth Schuyler. Realistically, it is impossible to “give the world”, but using the hyperbole, Hamilton exaggerates the things he would do for his wife.
18. “What a world will soon be between us!” refers to the time that will come when the war is over, which Hamilton believes is after this Siege on Yorktown.
19. This is a rhetorical question with an obvious answer, which once again praises Elizabeth Schuyler. Elizabeth Schuyler helped Hamilton with his campaign regarding military affairs, helping him write speeches while giving care to eight children, keeping the home live spirited.
20. Connected to the last annotation, Elizabeth Schuyler has played a very important role in shaping Hamilton’s career, supporting him and helping him get through situations that might have been hard to handle alone. Since he is aware of this, he wishes to give back and be the same support she was to him.
21. Hamilton says, “Our operations will be expeditious, as well as our success certain,” talking about the events that will lead up to and the event Battle of Yorktown Hamilton firmly believed that this will end the war, thus writing to his wife in this tone throughout the whole letter.
22. This refers to the Battle of Yorktown, the battle that led to victory for the colonies. As mentioned in a previous annotation, Hamilton told his wife confidential secrets regarding military matters.
23. Hamilton once again reassures his wife that the end of the Revolutionary War is imminent, hinting at the Battle of Yorktown the colonists are preparing. He does this by repeating the fact that the couple doesn’t have to be separated anymore after November.
24. Hamilton seems to make an analogy, comparing his wife to a deity. Hamilton says, “devoting myself wholly to you”. The word “devote” is primarily used in a religious context, which leads the readers to suggest that Hamilton is looking at his wife as a God, but more realistically someone he appreciates and respects wholeheartedly.
25. Hamilton continues with the theme of religion in this sentence. Looking at most religions, the religious people often say that their God alone is enough. Similarly, Hamilton is saying that Elizabeth Schuyler alone is enough and he is not afraid of missing out on anything else if he is with her.
26. Between October 10 and October 12, the French troops and the colonists opened batteries, aiming to reach closer to Yorktown, consuming a frigate and three larger transportation modes.

 

 

________________________________________________________________________

 

1. “Alexander Hamilton.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 June 2018,        en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Hamilton.
2. “Alexander Hamilton.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 June 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexander_Hamilton.
3. ALEXANDER HAMILTON.(1804, 10). The Literary Magazine, and American Register (1803-1807), 2, 491.
4. AN ORIGINAL LETTER OF ALEXANDER HAMILTON.(1804, 11). The Literary Magazine, and American Register (1803-1807), 2, 647.
5. “Battle of Yorktown Begins.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, www.history.com/this-day-in-history/battle-of-yorktown-begins.
6. “Chronology of the Siege of Yorktown.” National Parks Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, nps.gov/york/learn/historyculture/siegetimeline.htm.
7. Connett, Ian. “Portrait of a Young Officer.” Dobbs Ferry Historical Society, May 2015, http://www.dobbsferryhistory.org/Ferryman_files/DFHSFerrymanSpring2015.pdf.
8. Dohla, Johann Conrad. “‘Battle of Yorktown Begins.’ History.com, A&E Television Networks, Www.history.com/This-Day-in-History/Battle-of-Yorktown-Begins.” Yorktown, resourcelibrary.history.org/sites/default/files/PSCollectionYorktown_0.pdf.
9. Florus, Wilhelm Heinrich. “Letter from Wlilhelm Heinrich Florus, Graf Von Schwerin, HIs Uncle.” Yorktown, resourcelibrary.history.org/sites/default/files/PSCollectionYorktown_0.pdf.
10. “From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [10 July 1781],” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-02-02-1178. [Original source: The Papers of Alexander Hamilton, vol. 2, 1779–1781, ed. Harold C. Syrett. New York: Columbia University Press, 1961, pp. 647–648.]
11. “From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, [15–18 September 1781],” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-02-02-1196. [Original source: The Papers of Alexander Hamilton, vol. 2, 1779–1781, ed. Harold C. Syrett. New York: Columbia University Press, 1961, pp. 675–676.]
12. “From Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Hamilton, 10 October 1781,” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-02-02-1198. [Original source: The Papers of Alexander Hamilton, vol. 2, 1779–1781, ed. Harold C. Syrett. New York: Columbia University Press, 1961, p. 677.]
13. Hamilton, A., & Hamilton, A. (2001). The Revolutionary Writings of Alexander Hamilton.
14. Hamilton, A. (1817, 12). LETTER FROM ALEXANDER HAMILTON, ESQ. TO THE MARQUIS DE LA FAYETTE.The Port – Folio (1801-1827), 4, 469
15. “[July 1781],” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/01-03-02-0007-0003. [Original source: The Diaries of George Washington, vol. 3, 1 January 1771–5 November 1781, ed. Donald Jackson. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1978, pp. 388–404.]
16. Morgan, Curtis F. “Nathanael Greene as Quartermaster General.” Journal of the American Revolution, 28 Aug. 2016, allthingsliberty.com/2013/11/nathanael-greene-quartermaster-general/.
17. “October 1781,” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/01-03-02-0007-0006. [Original source: The Diaries of George Washington, vol. 3, 1 January 1771–5 November 1781, ed. Donald Jackson. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1978, pp. 424–436.]
18. “September 1781,” Founders Online, National Archives, last modified June 13, 2018, http://founders.archives.gov/documents/Washington/01-03-02-0007-0005. [Original source: The Diaries of George Washington, vol. 3, 1 January 1771–5 November 1781, ed. Donald Jackson. Charlottesville: University Press of Virginia, 1978, pp. 417–424.]
19. “The American Revolution.” National Parks Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, www.nps.gov/revwar/revolution_day_by_day/1781_main.html.
20. “Why Elizabeth Hamilton Is Deserving of a Musical of Her Own.” Smithsonian.com, Smithsonian Institution, 25 Feb. 2016, www.smithsonianmag.com/history/why-elizabeth-hamilton-deserving-musical-her-own-180958214

During my time in college so far I’ve learned a lot about the different writing styles and how to approach a piece that I would want to write on. My ideal writing practices are coming up with the research, producing an outline, writing , revisions, and editing. Every time I cover a topic that I’m writing on I always cover those 5 basics. Even though sometimes I may have gotten overwhelmed when writing along with getting off topic I knew eventually I would pick up a strategy. Moreover, the more I wrote, the more I begin to figure out my style. I feel as though writing has gotten easier for me for the simple fact that practice makes perfect.

It somewhat doesn’t matter what type of environment I’m in while writing because when I’m writing I’m locked in and focused. I usually don’t get distracted by many things but if I had a choice I would prefer a more quiet setting. I feel as though if you’re working in silence it allows you to concentrate more and focus more on the task at hand. It’s safe to say that most people would want their writing setting to be a more type environment and that’s what I would best want my setting to be as well.

Personally I don’t have a favorite writing snack or rewards, but as I continue to perfect my craft that’ll all come rather soon. On the other hand, I love handling deadlines because they give me a challenge and I love challenges. There is a famous saying that my advisor says and it goes, “Pressure either breaks you or makes you stronger.” I’m a firm believer that I shine under pressure and it motivates me to fulfil my tasks. Lastly, Writing overall has helped in big regards, and as I continue to work on it my heights will forever go on!

 

 

 

 

Hamilton-Burr correspondences

Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr

1804

Wikisource, https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Hamilton%E2%80%93Burr_duel_correspondences

 

Hamilton-Burr correspondences

Burr to Hamilton, June 18, 1804[edit]

N York 18 June 1804

Sir,

I send for your perusal a letter signed Ch. D. Cooper which, though apparently published some time ago, has but very recently come to my knowledge.^[1] Mr. Van Ness, who does me the favor to deliver this, will point out to you that clause of the letter to which I particularly request your attention.^[2]

You must perceive, Sir, the necessity of a prompt and unqualified acknowledgement or denial of the use of any expressions which could warrant the assertions of Dr. Cooper.^[3]

I have the honor to be

Your Obdt. S^t

1. Burr

Hamilton to Burr, June 20, 1804[edit]

N York 20 June 1804

Sir:

I have maturely reflected on the subject of your letter^[4] of the 18th Instant, and the more I have reflected, the more I have become convinced that I could not without manifest impropriety make the avowal or disavowal which you seem to think necessary.^[5]

The clause pointed out by Mr. Van Ness is in these terms^[6]: “I could detail to you a still more despicable opinion which General Hamilton has expressed of Mr. Burr.”^[7] To endeavor to discover the meaning of this declaration, I was obliged to seek in the antecedent part of the letter for the opinion to which it referred, as having been already disclosed. I found it in these words: “Genl. Hamilton and Judge Kent have declared in substance that they looked upon Mr. Burr to be a dangerous man, and one who ought not to be trusted with the reins of Government.”^[8] The language of Dr. Cooper plainly implies that he considered this opinion of you, which he attributes to me, as a despicable one; but he affirms that I have expressed some other still more despicable; without, however, mentioning to whom, when or where. ‘Tis evident that the phrase “still more despicable” admits of infinite shades from very light to very dark. How am I to judge of the degree intended. Or how should I annex any precise idea to language so vague?

Between Gentlemen despicable and still more despicable are not worth the pains of a distinction.^[9] When, therefore, you do not interrogate me as to the opinion which is specifically ascribed to me^[10], I must conclude that you view it as within the limits to which the animadversions of political opponents, upon each other, may justifiably extend; and consequently as not warranting the idea of it which Dr. Cooper appears to entertain. If so, what precise inference could you draw as a guide for your future conduct, were I to acknowledge that I had expressed an opinion of you, still more despicable than the one which is particularized? How could you be sure that even this opinion had exceeded the bounds which you would yourself deem admissible between political opponents?

But I forbear further comment on the embarrassment to which the requisition you have made naturally leads. The occasion forbids a more ample illustration, though nothing would be more easy than to pursue it.

Repeating that I can not reconcile it with propriety to make the acknowledgment or denial you desire, I will add that I deem it inadmissible on principle, to consent to be interrogated as to the justness of the inferences which may be drawn by others, from whatever I may have said of a political opponent in the course of a fifteen years competition. If there were no other objection to it, this is sufficient, that it would tend to expose my sincerity and delicacy to injurious imputations from every person who may at any time have conceived that import of my expressions differently from what I may then have intended, or may afterwards recollect.

I stand ready to avow or disavow promptly and explicitly any precise or definite opinion which I may be charged with having declared to any gentleman. More than this can not fitly be expected from me; and especially it can not reasonably be expected that I shall enter into an explanation upon a basis so vague as that which you have adopted. I trust upon more reflection you will see the matter in the same light with me. If not, I can only regret the circumstances and must abide the consequences.

The publication of Dr. Cooper was never seen by me ‘till after the receipt of your letter.

Sir, I have the honor to be

Your Obdt. S^t

1. Hamilton

Burr to Hamilton, June 21, 1804[edit]

N York 21 June, 1804.

Sir,

Your letter of the 20th inst. has been this day received.^[11] Having considered it attentively, I regret to find in it nothing of that sincerity and delicacy which you profess to value.^[12]

Political opposition can never absolve gentlemen from the necessity of a rigid adherence to the laws of honor and the rules of decorum. I neither claim such privilege nor indulge it in others.

The common sense of mankind affixes to the epithet adopted by Dr. Cooper the idea of dishonor. It has been publicly applied to me under the sanction of your name. The question is not whether he has understood the meaning of the word or has used it according to syntax and with grammatical accuracy, but whether you have authorized this application either directly or by uttering expression or opinion derogatory to my honor. The time “when” is in your own knowledge but no way material to me^[13], as the calumny has now just been disclosed so as to become the subject of my notice and as the effect is present and palpable.

Your letter has furnished me with new reasons for requiring a definite reply.

I have the honor to be

Your Obdt. S^t

1. Burr

Hamilton to Burr, June 22, 1804[edit]

N York 22 June 1804

Sir,

Your first letter, in a style too peremptory, made a demand, in my opinion, unprecedented and unwarrantable.^[14] My answer, pointing out the embarrassment, gave you an opportunity to take a less exceptionable course. You have not chosen to do it, but by your last letter, received this day, containing expressions indecorous and improper, you have increased the difficulties to explanation, intrinsically incident to the nature of your application^[15].

If by a “definite reply” you mean the direct avowal or disavowal required in your first letter, I have no other answer to give than that which has already been given. If you mean anything different admitting of greater latitude, it is requisite you should explain.

I have the honor to be, Sir

Your Obdt. S^t

1. Hamilton

Van Ness to Pendleton, June 26, 1804[edit]

Sir,

The letter which you yesterday delivered me and your subsequent communication in Col. Burr’s opinion evince no disposition on the part of Genl. Hamilton to come to a satisfactory accommodation. The injury complained of and the reparation expected are so definitely expressed in his (Col. B.’s) letter of the 21st Inst. that there is not perceived a necessity for further explanation on his part. The difficulty that would result from confining the inquiry to any particular times and occasions must be manifest. The denial of a specified conversation only, would leave strong implications that on other occasions improper language had been used. When and where injurious expressions and opinions have been uttered by Genl. Hamilton must be best known to him and of him only does Col. Burr think it proper to enquire.

No denial or declaration will be satisfactory unless it be general so as to wholly exclude the idea that rumors derogatory to Col. Burr’s honor can have originated with Genl. Hamilton or have been fairly inferred from anything he has said. A definite reply to a requisition of this nature is demanded in Col. Burr’s letter of the 21st Inst. This being refused, invites the alternative alluded to in Genl. H.’s letter of the 20th Inst. It was demanded by the position in which the controversy was placed by Genl. H. on the 22nd Inst., and I was immediately furnished with a communication demanding a personal interview.

The necessity of this measure has not in the opinion of Col. Burr been diminished by the General’s last letter or any subsequent communication which has been received and I am again instructed to deliver you a message as soon as it may be convenient for you to receive it. I beg, therefore, you will have the politeness to inform me at what hour I shall wait on you.

Your most obt. & very hum. Servt.

1. P. Van Ness

 

 

Works Cited

 

“Alexander Hamilton Chronology.” PBS, Public Broadcasting Service,

pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/features/alexander-hamilton-chronology/.

BAKER, THOMAS N. “An Attack Well Directed” Aaron Burr Intrigues for the

Presidency.” Journal of the Early Republic, vol. 31, no. 4, Winter2011, pp. 553-598. EBSCOhost, proxy.kennesaw.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=a9h&AN=67091090&site=eds-live&scope=site

 

Burr, Aaron, and Matthew L. Davis. The Private Journal of Aaron Burr. Vol. 1, Harper &

Brothers, Cliff-Street., 1838, The Private Journal of Aaron Burr, During His Residence of Four …, Volume 1.

 

Chernow, Ron. Alexander Hamilton. Penguin Press, 2017.

“Competing Visions: Federalists and Democrat-Republicans.” Lumen, Open SUNY Textbooks, courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ushistory1os2xmaster/chapter/competing-visions-federalists-and-democratic-republicans/.

 com, www.dictionary.com/.

 

Drake, Ross. “Duel!” com, Smithsonian Institution, Mar. 2004,

www.smithsonianmag.com/history/duel-104161025/.

“Founders Online: Enclosure: Charles D. Cooper to Philip Schuyler, [23 April 1804].”

National Archives and Records Administration, National Archives and Records Administration, founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-26-02-0001-0203-0002.

“Freedom of Speech Clause.” Revolutionary War and Beyond,

revolutionary-war-and-beyond.com/freedom-of-speech-clause.html.

Gerson, Michael. “Overcoming Adversity: The Childhood of Alexander Hamilton Page

3.” Varsity Tutors, www.varsitytutors.com/earlyamerica/early-america-review/volume-6/alexander-hamilton-childhood-3.

Hamilton, Alexander, James Madison, John Jay. “The Federalist Papers.” The Federalist

Papers, New York Press, 1787. www.let.rug.nl/usa/documents/1786-1800/the-federalist-papers/.

 

Hamilton, Alexander. Burr, Aaron. “Wikisource, the Free Online Library.” Received by Aaron Burr, Wikisource, the Free Online Library, 20 June 1804, en.wikisource.org/wiki/Hamilton–Burr_duel_correspondences.

 

 

Hess, Peter. “The Albany Connections of Burr, Hamilton, and Schuyler …” The New

York History Blog, 14 May 2015,

Landers, Robert K. “DUEL: Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr and the Future of

America.” The Wilson Quarterly, no. 1, 2000. EBSCOhost, proxy.kennesaw.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsglr&AN=edsgcl.59227692&site=eds-live&scope=site.

Lewis, James E., Jr. “Fallen Founder: The Life of Aaron Burr.” Journal of the Early

Republic, no. 1, 2008, p. 132. EBSCOhost, proxy.kennesaw.edu/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=edsglr&AN=edsgcl.174322765&site=eds-live&scope=site.

Manuel, Lin. “Hamilton Original Broadway Cast Recording.” com, 25 Sept. 2015,

genius.com/7854343.

“Philip Hamilton’s Duel.” org, Public Broadcasting Service,

web.archive.org/web/20160116011455/http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/duel/peopleevents/pande16.html.

 

Randall, Willard. “Hamilton Takes Command.” com, Smithsonian Institution, 1 Jan.

2003, www.smithsonianmag.com/history/hamilton-takes-command-74722445/.

 

“The World’s Favorite Online Thesaurus!” thesaurus.com, www.thesaurus.com/.

 

Sanderson, Edgar, et al. The World’s History and Its Makers: American Statesmen. Vol.

8, E.R. Dumont, 1902, books.google.com/books?id=A1U4AQAAMAAJ&pg=PA410&lpg=PA410&dq=The World’s History and Its Makers: American statesmen&source=bl&ots=_QwYx_nu24&sig=-_KFTBrCOSFeLnH3h_RzGfNrne8&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjdwNmRxNvbAhXCmVkKHTB-CbwQ6AEISTAG#v=onepage&q=The World’s History and Its Makers: American statesmen&f=false.

Stemke, Carrie. “In the Defense of Honor: The Rise and Fall of Dueling in America.”

The Ultimate History Project, ultimatehistoryproject.com/dueling.html.

 

^[1] Burr to Hamilton telling Hamilton that he sent a letter that was published a while ago and is just realizing the he has done so.

^[2] Mr. Van Ness is making sure the message is served to Hamilton properly and will explain the importance of why the letter needs to be seen.

^[3] Burr wants Hamilton to know the importance and the contribution of Dr. Cooper’s belief.

^[4] Hamilton has read and reviewed the letter that he received from Burr to fit his knowledge and thought process.

^[5]Hamilton has turned out to be persuaded that he couldn’t without show indecency and make the acknowledgment or repudiation which Burr assumes vital.

^[6] Mr. Van Ness pointed what he thought was important about Burr.

^[7] General Hamilton has expressed how he felt about Burr which was his opinion to Mr. Van Ness.

^[8]The General and Judge have identified Burr to be a risky man, and one who should not to be allowed to hold importance in any aspect of legislature.

^[9] Hamilton tries to inform Burr about how he feels by acknowledging that between gentlemen terrible and still more awful are not worth the torments of a qualification.

^[10] Hamilton has deep feelings on the position he stands for and which opinions were brought to him does not mean his view has changed.

^[11] Burr announces that he has received the letter from Hamilton.

^[12] Burr having thought of it as mindfully, he laments to discover in it nothing of that earnestness and delicacy which Hamilton claims.

^[13] Burr feels that he just wants Hamilton to understand, no matter when he understands, but just that he gets it.

^[14] Hamilton expresses to Burr that his first letter, in a way that is excessively authoritative, made a request, and he believes is phenomenal and will never happen.

^[15] Hamilton feels like he opened up to Burr and he did not take his offer to empathize with him but rather did he insult him. He expresses that he is writing the feelings of the previous letter the day he acknowledges the letter.

Title: Hamilton and Burr’s Duel Correspondence

Author: Alexander Hamilton, Burr

Origin: Wikisource

Link to Origin: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/Hamilton%E2%80%93Burr_duel_correspondences

Date of Origin: June 18, 1804

N York 18 June 1804

Sir,

I send for your perusal a letter signed Ch. D. Cooper which, though apparently published some time ago, has but very recently come to my knowledge. Mr. Van Ness, who does me the favor to deliver this, will point out to you that clause of the letter to which I particularly request your attention.

You must perceive, Sir, the necessity of a prompt and unqualified acknowledgement or denial of the use of any expressions which could warrant the assertions of Dr. Cooper.

I have the honor to be
Your Obdt. S^t

A. Burr

Hamilton to Burr, June 20, 1804[edit]

N York 20 June 1804

Sir:

I have maturely reflected on the subject of your letter of the 18th Instant, and the more I have reflected, the more I have become convinced that I could not without manifest impropriety make the avowal or disavowal which you seem to think necessary.

The clause pointed out by Mr. Van Ness is in these terms: “I could detail to you a still more despicable opinion which General Hamilton has expressed of Mr. Burr.” To endeavor to discover the meaning of this declaration, I was obliged to seek in the antecedent part of the letter for the opinion to which it referred, as having been already disclosed. I found it in these words: “Genl. Hamilton and Judge Kent have declared in substance that they looked upon Mr. Burr to be a dangerous man, and one who ought not to be trusted with the reins of Government.” The language of Dr. Cooper plainly implies that he considered this opinion of you, which he attributes to me, as a despicable one; but he affirms that I have expressed some other still more despicable; without, however, mentioning to whom, when or where. ‘Tis evident that the phrase “still more despicable” admits of infinite shades from very light to very dark. How am I to judge of the degree intended. Or how should I annex any precise idea to language so vague?

Between Gentlemen despicable and still more despicable are not worth the pains of a distinction. When, therefore, you do not interrogate me as to the opinion which is specifically ascribed to me, I must conclude that you view it as within the limits to which the animadversions of political opponents, upon each other, may justifiably extend; and consequently as not warranting the idea of it which Dr. Cooper appears to entertain. If so, what precise inference could you draw as a guide for your future conduct, were I to acknowledge that I had expressed an opinion of you, still more despicable than the one which is particularized? How could you be sure that even this opinion had exceeded the bounds which you would yourself deem admissible between political opponents?

But I forbear further comment on the embarrassment to which the requisition you have made naturally leads. The occasion forbids a more ample illustration, though nothing would be more easy than to pursue it.

Repeating that I can not reconcile it with propriety to make the acknowledgment or denial you desire, I will add that I deem it inadmissible on principle, to consent to be interrogated as to the justness of the inferences which may be drawn by others, from whatever I may have said of a political opponent in the course of a fifteen years competition. If there were no other objection to it, this is sufficient, that it would tend to expose my sincerity and delicacy to injurious imputations from every person who may at any time have conceived that import of my expressions differently from what I may then have intended, or may afterwards recollect.

I stand ready to avow or disavow promptly and explicitly any precise or definite opinion which I may be charged with having declared to any gentleman. More than this can not fitly be expected from me; and especially it can not reasonably be expected that I shall enter into an explanation upon a basis so vague as that which you have adopted. I trust upon more reflection you will see the matter in the same light with me. If not, I can only regret the circumstances and must abide the consequences.

The publication of Dr. Cooper was never seen by me ‘till after the receipt of your letter.

Sir, I have the honor to be
Your Obdt. S^t

A. Hamilton

Hamilton and Burr’s “Beef” is one the biggest in US history. Having two political figures butting heads like this was major. One a vice president and the other a founding father. Both hated each other due to different views. Both men were suffering from power trips and their egos are easily shown in the letters they send back and forth to each other. Burr starts the series of letters by sending Hamilton a letter informing him on intel he has received from Dr. Cooper. [1]

 

Burr sent Van Ness to personally deliver his letter to Hamilton and relay his message clearly so Hamilton understood him. He then requests for his perception of his message. It seems as if Burr was looking for a reaction from Hamilton. [2]

 

Hamilton then responds  days later appearing to be unfazed from the random letter he got from Burr. He responds saying that he can’t perceive his message in any way. He says “ I could not without manifest impropriety make the avowal or disavowal which you seem to think necessary”. In the quote he seems to come off as not caring about the situation. He probably did have his own perceptions of the letter but didn’t to share them as a tactic to get under Burr’s skin.[3]

 

Hamilton seems to understand everything Burr was saying because he then proceeds to dissect what Van Ness, Burr’s messenger, said to him and gave to him.[4] Hamilton then switches around the words of Dr.Cooper and is saying that he said that Burr is not to be trusted in politics. He’s basically discrediting Burr’s source of information on him.[5]

 

Hamilton then tells Burr that he shouldn’t go looking for problems with other people when he is the only problematic person. The exchanges between the two are in a way, polite disrespect towards each other.[6] Once again the overall length of Hamilton’s letter compared to Burr’s almost three times bigger. This entails that Hamilton did in fact take some notice to Burr’s letter and had a few things to say about it as seen in the response.[7] Hamilton refers to comments being said about Burr from his political colleagues. He also questions how someone of that kind of nature can attain such power over the nation.

 

 

 

 

Sources

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burr–Hamilton_duel

[2] www.history.com/this-day-in-history/burr-slays-hamilton-in-duel

[3] https://www.britannica.com/list/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-the-hamilton-burr-duel-according-to-hamiltons-burr

[4] https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/burr-vs-hamilton-behind-the-ultimate-political-feud

[5]  www.americaslibrary.gov/jb/nation/jb_nation_hamburr_1.html

George Washington’s Farewell Address

September 19, 1796

3The period for a new election of a Citizen, to Administer the Executive government of the United States, [1] being not far distant, and the time actually arrived, when your thoughts must be employed in designating the person, [2]who is to be cloathed with that important trust, it appears to me proper, especially as it may conduce to a more distinct expression of the public voice,[3] that I should now apprise you of the resolution I have formed, to decline being considered among the number of those, out of whom a choice is to be made.

4[4]I beg you, at the sametime, to do me the justice to be assured, that this resolution has not been taken, without a strict regard to all the considerations appertaining to the relation, which binds a dutiful Citizen to his country–and that, in withdrawing the tender of service which silence in my Situation might imply, [5]I am influenced by no diminution of zeal for your future interest, no deficiency of grateful respect for your past kindness; but am supported by a full conviction that the step is compatible with both.

5[6]The acceptance of, & continuance hitherto in, the Office to which your Suffrages have twice called me, have been a uniform sacrifice of inclination to the opinion of duty, and to a deference for what appeared to be your desire.[7] I constantly hoped, that it would have been much earlier in my power, consistently with motives, which I was not at liberty to disregard, to return to that retirement, from which I had been reluctantly drawn.[8] The strength of my inclination to do this, previous to the last Election, had even led to the preparation of an address to declare it to you;[9] but mature reflection on the then perplexed & critical posture of our Affairs with foreign nations, and the unanimous advice of persons entitled to my confidence, impelled me to abandon the idea.

6[10]I rejoice, that the state of your concerns, external as well as internal, no longer renders the pursuit of inclination incompatible with the sentiment of duty, or propriety; & [11]am persuaded whatever partiality may be retained for my services, that in the present circumstances of our country, you will not disapprove my determination to retire.

7[12The impressions, with which, I first undertook the arduous trust, were explained on the proper occasion.[13] In the discharge of this trust, I will only say, that I have, with good intentions, contributed towards the Organization and Administration of the government, the best exertions of which a very fallible judgment was capable.[14] Not unconscious, in the outset, of the inferiority of my qualifications, experience in my own eyes, perhaps still more in the eyes of others, has strengthned the motives to diffidence of myself;[15] and every day the encreasing weight of years admonishes me more and more, that the shade of retirement is as necessary to me as it will be welcome.

[16]In relation to the still subsisting War in Europe, my Proclamation of the 22d of April 1793 is the index to my Plan. [17]Sanctioned by your approving voice and by that of Your Representatives in both Houses of Congress,[18] the spirit of that measure has continually governed me; uninfluenced by any attempts to deter or divert me from it.

[19]After deliberate examination with the aid of the best lights I could obtain I was well satisfied that our Country, under all the circumstances of the case, had a right to take, and was bound in duty and interest, to take a Neutral position.[20] Having taken it, I determined, as far as should depend upon me, to maintain it, with moderation, perseverence & firmness.

[21]The duty of holding a neutral conduct may be inferred, without any thing more, from the obligation which justice and humanity impose on every Nation, in cases in which it is free to act, to maintain inviolate the relations of Peace and amity towards other Nations.

---

[1] This a long way of explaining the historical events of the presidential election of 1796 that consisted between John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Thomas Pinckney. Washington stepped down and did not return for a third term and changed the history for us all. Whoever administers the executive branch is the leader of our country, which is the president.

[2]This part of the address refers to us as people, and us as a nation to select the person we fell the most comfortable with to be the leader of our country. This called an election and whoever gets the most votes from the people in our country will be our next president.

[3]What Washington means as he says “resolution I have formed” that since he is the first president of America he created a pattern that was probably the most vital point in American history. Also with him coming up with the two-term system was big as well. He also did not want to be among them because his time was up. This man was the true founding father!

[4]This part is explaining that in this country the people truly hold all power. That we should also put our minds to where we think carefully about Washington new system and produce an environment that will not cause disturbances. He put high emphasis on that so that the world could have order and continue to work hard.

[5]Washington had heavy impact on the America’s change of the as we know it today. What he was trying to explain was that he is thankful of all the love and respect he has received and how much support he has got on becoming president. Moreover, he is saying that having a defined leader and having support is helpful towards society.

[6]We as Americans have freedom! The people have the say so in almost every situation possible. When we as people chose to be our leader is our choice. We make the choice because we see the potential in one individual to fulfill our desire so that the country could get better as a whole. In this country, choices are everything. It falls on the desire of us “the people”.

[7]Washington is explaining that he wishes earlier in his time as president he wished he had reasons to do certain things. On the other hand, I believe as he was getting older and having a mindset that for once he could make a change, he began to think things over and provided change.

[8]This tells us that he was prepared to give us this election a long time before he actually gave it, That he thought long and hard about the moment of him giving the farewell address. It was of strong desire to do so said by him so that would mean he might have always planned for the two-term system and potentially stepping down from office. This was big because if that were not the case many people would think that presidency is a long-term deal.

[9]Adding on to his previous statement, in the process of him thinking of the Farewell Address, he wanted to put high emphasis on the mature level of it in a way that the citizens could see that their opinions matter. The feedback from the people gave him great confidence in office.

[10]Washington is celebrating how the people’s concerns no longer gives him the pursuit of desire of good duty and proper behavior. This allowed him to become very comfortable in office. He knew different citizens were going to have their opinions, so he was not going to stress making sure he did whatever to please everyone. You are either going to like it or not.

[11]He is explaining that he is convinced that whatever unfair liking he was receiving while in office must be contained within his services. Ultimately meaning that he did not want the dis approval from his people upon his decision to step down as president. Sure people were going to have their opinions but they never should go against a decision that changed America in a positive way. Although he wanted no dis approvals, that did not put shade on the fact that most people’s desire for him to stay was still high.

[12]Washington wanted to let everyone know that he knew what he had to do coming into office and he did it to the best of his ability. Some of the things he did may not have been right but it was not as though he always made the wrong decisions. He was like by many if not all. Washington had the most important presidency reign to me because he would go on to set the standard of what needs to go on in office.

[13]Everything he did or was trying to do was help our country as much as possible. Washington is letting us know that he has played a vital role in contributing to this country in many different ways. He gave the organization hard work of which an imperfect judgement was then capable.

[14]When dealing with things of a serious matter, like being the first president of America the comfort level has to be there and experience maybe key. He is explaining that without the conception from citizens or people within that hierarchy he had much experience in his own eyes, more than the in the eyes of others.

[15]Washington is expressing the fact that every day while in office, the weight upon his shoulders grew larger and larger. This began to bring to his attention that retirement was necessary. The case with people as a whole is nobody wants to feel like they have to do too much, so when they do it causes stress. I feel as though being the president of a country of this magnitude requires a very strong state of mind, but even that may not be enough. Washington was intelligent in that area and he knew many to come after him would struggle in trying to withstand the continuation of presidency. His two-term policy saved the value of presidency in my belief.

[16]Washington is stating that his survival of war in Europe was the basis of the plan for his proclamation announcement on April 22, 1793. Ant type of war is hard for anyone who takes part in it. By him explaining the trials and tribulations of the war, it gave Washington a great acknowledgment on what his plans were in his announcement.

[17]During this lustrous Proclamation announcement, it gave him great pleasure to hear the approving voices from the people on what he announcement had to offer. He wanted to stress the importance of the positive feedback from the people that were there.

[18]He is explaining that the overall spirt of the people’s approval was so great that it took his mind off those who tried to diminish it. Moreover, it continued to govern him and get him through the process of him having a strong mindset that the people were behind him.

[19]After his carefully planned examination with the help from his best lights, he was confident in belief of the status of the country. Moreover, I was in strong approval that were the country was at that time was a great starting point in the direction in which he intended for it to go.

[20]Washington wanted to let society know that everything should depend on him, good or bad. This was because as a leader of the country you make decisions to where everything you do the country should already be depended on you, especially if we saw fit to elect you as our first president.

[21]Washington held a neutral conduct that maybe was guessed based upon what was known. However, without anything more from his obligations of justice and humanity it imposed will on every other nation outside of America. Moreover, with the conduct of freedom to act, to maintain the untouched peace and friendship of other Nations.

---

Works Cited

Bradley, H. W. (1945). The political Thinking of George Washington. The Journal of Southern History , 469-486.

Brownson, J. D. (2000). The Presidency of George Washington. Mount Vernon Ladies Assn of the.

Deconde, A. (1796). Washinton Farewell, the French Alliance, and Election of 1796. Mississippi Valley Historical Review, 641-658.

Ferling, J. (2010). The ascent of George Washington: The hidden political genius of an American Icon . Bloomsbury Publishing USA.

Ferling, J. E. (210). A life of George Washington. Oxford University Press.

Flexner, J. T. (1783-1793). George Washington and the new nation. Little, Brown and Company .

George Washington. (n.d.). Retrieved from history.com: https://www.history.com/topics/us-presidents/george-washington

Heffner, R. D. (2002). A documentary history of the United States . Univ. of Press of Mississippi.

Leckie, R. (1992). George Washington’s War. the saga of the American Revolution .

Lengel, E. G. (2005). A Milatary Life . Random House .

Marshall, J. (2015). The Life of George Washington . Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.

McDonald, F. (1974). The Presidency of George Washington. University Press of Kansas .

Morrison, J. H. (2009). The political philosophy of George Washington. JHU press.

Schwartz, B. (1990). George Washington: The Making of an American Symbol . Cornell University Press.

Southall Douglas Freeman, J. A. (1948). George Washington, a biography .

Trevelyan, G. O. (1907). The American Revolution. Longmans, Green, and Company .

Washington, G. (1793). The Proclamation of Neutrality. 472-74.

Washington, G. (1796). George Washington’s Farewell Address.

Washington, G. (1810). Washington’s Farewell Address to the people of the United States . John L. Cook .

Washington, G. (1972). A biography in his own words . Vol.2.

Washington, G. (2014). Farewell Address. September 17. 1796, 173.

Wiencek, H. (2003). George Washington, His Slaves, and the Creation of America . Macmillan.

 

One interesting point that we discussed in class and I found amusing was Hamilton started off as a mixtape! When I usually think of a mixtape, I think of boys gifting it their girlfriends on Valentines Day. I think of small time artists. What I don’t immediately connect this to is Hamilton: the play that thousands of people fly across the nation to watch, the musical that people jam out to on road trips, or the multimillion dollar Broadway production. It’s interesting that the play developed to this extent. I think it is important to take a look at the development of this play and take lessons from its progression. Lin-Manuel Miranda worked really hard on this musical. He spent an entire year working on the “My Shot” song alone. This project took multiple years of hard work to come together to the beautiful final product that is today. The acting, singing, and choreography were all worked out into harmony that resulted in this successful musical. This long process reminds me of my own experience with an engineering project I worked on last semester. The project was a culmination of research, coding, hardware wiring, and testing that resulted in the final device. We had to spend a significant amount of time at each phase of the project before we could move on. It required a lot of adjusting along the way just like Lin-Manuel Miranda had to do. Surprisingly, our finished product was so different from the one we envisioned at the beginning. It was important for us to stay open to new ideas and changes and not restrict ourselves to one vision of the product. Imagine if Miranda stuck with his vision of having Hamilton being a concept album; this play would never have come to life! Finally, I also find the diversity of the Hamilton cast to be a crucial aspect of the play. In today’s social and political climate, having a diverse set of actors for people to look up to and fan over is definitely a positive.

By: Ege Akin

There is a lot to absorb from the ideologies conveyed in the musical “Hamilton” by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Having studied Hamilton and his life thoroughly for and during class, I now have started to implement Hamilton and Burr’s ideologies in my life. For my first blog post I had reflected on the importance of repetition and what it meant for the main characters’ visions. I would like to bring these lines back, since they have helped me a lot in my perspective of life. The repetition used to mainly reflect Hamilton’s ideology is: “I am not throwing away my shot” from the song “My Shot”. On the other hand, Hamilton’s rival Aaron Burr uses the repetition of the lyric “wait for it” many times, in the song “Wait for It” to convey the exact opposite opinion about reaching success. However, I have come to the conclusions via my own experiences that we can take both of these recommendations, since different conditions need unique solutions.

In order to give a right decision, every aspect of the situation must be analyzed, and all decisions cannot be made upon just a certain claim. For example, just a couple of days ago, I was a part of the team that won the American Underwater Hockey National Championship. If I hadn’t “taken my shot” when I had my shot we wouldn’t have won. In moments like these one must push himself/herself to the limit and waste no time, or else the shot will be wasted. On the other hand, due to the current political instability in Turkey, living in America instead of Turkey seems much more secure, after graduating from college. However, the years 2020 and 2023 are very important for Turkey’s economic and political freedom. Thus, this time I have to “wait for it” in order to be able to give the best decision for myself. In my opinion, there are two ways of approaching problems which one can learn from the musical “Hamilton”, however he/she must use these approaches according to the certain situation and conditions presented.

“Hamilton” by Lin-Manuel Miranda reflects its audience that neither of the two main ideologies are wrong, because they both aid their followers very much in the pursue of success. However, after the analysis of the problem and requirements, if one chooses the wrong one of these two ideologies, the end is devastating. This is clearly conveyed by the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. In the duel Hamilton holds his shot, thereby violating his own ideology, whereas Burr takes the show, also violating his ideology

of “waiting for it”. Therefore, due to these mistakes, Alexander Hamilton dies and Aaron Burr has to carry the weight of murdering a friend for the rest of his life. In conclusion, whatever your problem is and however inextricable it may seem, if you just implement the ideologies of Hamilton and Burr you will see it clearer and surpass it to be stronger than you were before.

By: Kelton Dawson

 

We have talked about a lot of great things in this class but the thing that stuck out the most to me is Hamilton life. I say this because I feel like me and Hamilton have similar traits as we grew up. Hamilton was an orphan child and he had to learn a lot of things by himself without no kind of help. I know how hard it to accomplish that is why I say I think me and him relate the most. This is the most interesting thing to me just because I know his pain how it feels to feel like u are alone and nobody is there to support him. I also think we relate just because I know the struggle and how bad u may want to quit but you want to see all the people who talked down on you and show them differently, just to see how they will act when you are doing some that they didn’t get to accomplish in their past life. I also just like Hamilton demeanor on life he put his life on the line just to protect his country even when the people in his country were talking bad about him and they even abandoned him, but instead of holding his pride and not doing anything for his country he decided to be the bigger person and take the lead to make sure his country was well protected. I also love how hard he would care for the blacks and letting them become free and try to make them feel as a citizen in the world they were living in.  those are the many reason I why I think that has been the most interesting topic we have discussed this year so far but I know we will talk about a lot more topics that I may find even more interesting so I’m excited to see what this class holds for the future.