Author

Letters from Alexander Hamilton

B. 1755 · D. 1804

Alexander Hamilton was an American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first U.S. secretary of the treasury from 1789 to 1795 under the presidency of George Washington. He also founded America's first political party, the Federalist Party, in 1791.

Source: Wikipedia
395 letters
Letter

Alexander Hamilton to François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois), May 6, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois)
May 6, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs François Barbé-Marbois of sending Philadelphia newspapers to the military for prisoner exchange arrangements and anticipates some initial delays. He expresses personal esteem and notes the arrival of Colonel Meade in good health. Hamilton also comments on Irish addresses to the British Crown, expressing skepticism about their overly satisfied tone despite recent political developments.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, May 14, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To James Duane
May 14, 1780

Alexander Hamilton urges James Duane to persuade Congress to swiftly approve a critical military measure proposed by General Washington, emphasizing the urgency due to an impending arrival of reinforcements in June. He stresses the need for rapid preparations, including troop mobilization and supply organization, and advises limiting the committee’s involvement to essential consultations to maintain operational efficiency. Hamilton also notes the Marquis de Lafayette’s importance but cautions against indulging his personal preferences.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Nathanael Greene, May 16, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Nathanael Greene
May 16, 1780

Alexander Hamilton advises General Nathanael Greene to temper his harsh response to the Board of Treasury despite feeling unjustly treated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cooperation during the ongoing conflict. Hamilton warns that escalating personal resentments could harm Greene's position and operational effectiveness, urging a more diplomatic tone to preserve unity and avoid future obstacles.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, June 1, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
June 1, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs Elizabeth Schuyler about his recent correspondence with their father, mentioning uncertainty about his whereabouts and urging him to come to America after the war. He plans to send another letter through a trusted messenger and expresses affection for Elizabeth, hoping to convey her devotion to their father.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron von Steuben, June 7, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Friedrich Wilhelm Ludolf Gerhard Augustin, Baron von Steuben
June 7, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs Baron von Steuben that the enemy forces are advancing toward their position near Morristown, New Jersey. He reports that General Washington is preparing to confront the enemy and invites von Steuben to join him at Chatham. Hamilton conveys this message as an aide-de-camp on behalf of the General.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, July 2, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
July 2, 1780

Alexander Hamilton writes to Elizabeth Schuyler expressing his deep love and longing for their reunion while assuring her of his good health amid stagnant military affairs. He praises her virtues and urges her to care for herself and continue reading during her leisure. Hamilton conveys tender affection and concern for her well-being as they endure separation.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois), July 20, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois)
July 20, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs François Barbé-Marbois about the arrival of French naval forces and discusses the strategic importance of Rhode Island as a defensive position against the British fleet. He expresses hope for a successful Franco-American cooperation in a potential attack on New York, emphasizing the critical role of naval superiority. Hamilton also mentions ongoing difficulties in their efforts but remains cautiously optimistic about future progress.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, July 20, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
July 20, 1780

Alexander Hamilton expresses deep concern over not receiving letters from his wife, Elizabeth Schuyler, fearing she may be ill or neglectful despite his understanding nature. He emphasizes his constant thoughts of her amid his busy life and earnestly requests more frequent correspondence to soothe his anxious heart. Hamilton reassures her of his unwavering love and hopes she will forgive any perceived complaints born from tenderness.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette, July 21, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier, marquis de Lafayette
July 21, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs Marquis de Lafayette of intelligence suggesting British forces are preparing to embark troops from New York to threaten the French fleet and army near Rhode Island. He notes the absence of the commanding General and the possibility that the movement may be a feint but urges caution. Hamilton also mentions reports of a British naval loss in the West Indies, which he tends to believe.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, July 22, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To James Duane
July 22, 1780

Alexander Hamilton requests James Duane's support for Dr. McHenry, a longtime military aide seeking a formal commission as a Major due to his service and merit. Hamilton emphasizes McHenry's qualifications and their personal connection, urging Duane to assist him out of justice and friendship. He also briefly reports on recent military movements near New York and Bergen.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, August 1, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
August 1, 1780

Alexander Hamilton writes to Elizabeth Schuyler expressing his eagerness to receive her letters and learn her true feelings, emphasizing his deep affection and longing. He notes a delay in correspondence and suggests numbering their letters to ensure none are lost. Hamilton also mentions a mutual acquaintance, Meade, who is contemplating leaving military service and seeks his widow's approval, encouraging Elizabeth to show similar strength and patriotism.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois), August 17, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To François Barbé-Marbois (Barbé de Marbois)
August 17, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs François Barbé-Marbois that securing the release of his brothers as prisoners is uncertain unless a prisoner exchange can be arranged with the French. He has instructed the Commissary of Prisoners to seek permission for them to visit Barbé-Marbois in Philadelphia to assess their status. Hamilton expresses willingness to assist further and provides updates on military movements and privateer captures.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Clement Biddle, August 20, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Clement Biddle
August 20, 1780

Alexander Hamilton appeals to Clement Biddle to show leniency toward Mr. Laurence, a loyal supporter of the American cause facing the loss of his hay and livestock, which threatens his family's survival. Hamilton urges Biddle to spare Laurence's provisions if possible, balancing military needs with compassion. He emphasizes this request as a personal favor rather than an official order.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, August 31, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
August 31, 1780

Alexander Hamilton writes to Elizabeth Schuyler expressing his deep affection and regret that he cannot visit her before the campaign ends due to his public duties. He assures her that any perception of unkindness is unfounded, emphasizing his strong desire to be with her. Hamilton balances his personal longing with his commitment to his military responsibilities.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to James Duane, September 6, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To James Duane
September 6, 1780

Alexander Hamilton criticizes General Gates for his poor military strategy in a recent defeat, blaming Gates' misplaced trust in militia and flawed troop placements for the loss. Hamilton, personally hostile to Gates, argues that a better arrangement of forces would have secured a victory. He calls for a change in the American military system based on this failure.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, September 6, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
September 6, 1780

Alexander Hamilton reports to Elizabeth Schuyler on the recent defeat of General Gates near Camden, South Carolina, criticizing Gates for abandoning his troops and highlighting the dire consequences for the Southern colonies. He expresses concern over the potential loss of North Carolina and Virginia to British forces.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to John Laurens, September 16, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To John Laurens
September 16, 1780

Alexander Hamilton informs John Laurens of his imminent journey to Hartford for a meeting with French military leaders, expressing hope for French support in their cause. He urges Laurens to endure any disappointments without despair and encourages frequent correspondence. Hamilton also shares personal reflections on friendship, marriage, and his affection for Laurens.

Letter

Alexander Hamilton to Elizabeth Schuyler, October 13, 1780

From Alexander Hamilton
To Elizabeth Schuyler
October 13, 1780

Alexander Hamilton writes to Elizabeth Schuyler expressing his deep affection and admiration for her, comparing his passion to legendary historical figures. He emphasizes his restless desire to remain connected with her despite his duties as a soldier and philosopher. Hamilton also mentions sending a letter and a gift through Colonel Morris to her family.