Alexander Hamilton is widely known as the first Secretary of the Treasury, and one of the strongest advocates of our Constitution.  Born illegitimately in the Caribbean to a Scottish merchant father and a mother of French Huguenot descent, he was already managing the affairs of an accounting office by age 15.  After penning an essay in French detailing the devastation from a local hurricane, Hamilton was offered educational opportunities in the new, promising American colonies.  He volunteered with a local militia, and became an aide to General Washington during the Revolutionary War.  Afterward, Hamilton began an expansive career as a lawyer and political activist.  One of his most enduring achievements was authoring many of The Federalist Papers (originally known as, The Federalist), a series of manifestos advocating the ratification of the United States Constitution. To maintain anonymity, Hamilton, along with co-authors James Madison and John Jay, used the pseudonym “Publius” (after famed Roman Empire consul) to publish articles in three prominent New York newspapers, and later in bound volumes.  These articles reflect Hamilton’s enthusiasm for the new American country and his sharp mental abilities.  His death, via a duel with political rival Aaron Burr, was the final touch on a life Read More …