Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, is well-known for his contributions to the nation’s early financial systems, his role in drafting the Constitution, and his untimely death in a duel with Aaron Burr. However, less is often said about his personal life, particularly his children.
Hamilton and his wife, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, had eight children who were raised amidst the turbulence of the Revolutionary War and the early years of the American Republic. This article explores Hamilton’s children’s lives, accomplishments and challenges.
How many children did Alexander Hamilton have?
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Philip Hamilton (1782–1801)
Philip Hamilton was the eldest son of Alexander and Elizabeth. Named after his maternal grandfather, Philip Schuyler, he was a promising young man who his parents deeply cherished. Philip followed in his father’s footsteps, attending Columbia College (then King’s College) and showing a keen interest in law and public affairs.
Tragically, Philip’s life was cut short at the age of 19. In 1801, he was involved in a duel, much like the one that would later claim his father’s life. Philip had defended his father’s honor after a political rival insulted Alexander. The duel took place in Weehawken, New Jersey—the same location where Alexander Hamilton would later duel Aaron Burr. Philip’s death devastated the Hamilton family and had a profound impact on his father.
Angelica Hamilton (1784–1857)
Angelica Hamilton, the second child and eldest daughter, was named after her aunt, Angelica Schuyler Church. She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and musical talent. However, Angelica’s life took a tragic turn following the death of her brother Philip. Deeply affected by the loss, Angelica suffered a nervous breakdown and never fully recovered. She lived most of her life under the care of her family, and her mental health remained fragile until she died in 1857.
Alexander Hamilton Jr. (1786–1875)
Alexander Hamilton Jr., the second son of the Hamiltons, pursued a career in law and military service. Like his father, he attended Columbia College and later served in the U.S. Army during the War of 1812. After his military service, Alexander Jr. established a successful law practice and became involved in politics.
He was a staunch defender of his father’s legacy, often speaking and writing about Alexander Hamilton’s contributions to the nation. Alexander Jr. played a significant role in preserving his father’s papers and letters, which have been invaluable to historians.
James Alexander Hamilton (1788–1878)
James Alexander Hamilton, the third son, also pursued a career in law and public service. He served as a U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York and was a close political ally of President Andrew Jackson. James held various government positions, including acting Secretary of State in 1829.
James was deeply devoted to his family’s legacy and worked tirelessly to ensure that his father’s contributions were recognized and remembered. He played a key role in the preservation and publication of Alexander Hamilton’s works.
John Church Hamilton (1792–1882)
John Church Hamilton, the fourth son, was named after his uncle, John Barker Church, the husband of Angelica Schuyler. He followed the family tradition of public service and scholarship. John attended Columbia College and later served in the War of 1812.
After the war, John dedicated himself to writing and historical research. He is best known for his seven-volume biography of his father, “The Life of Alexander Hamilton,” which remains an important source for historians studying the founding era. John’s work helped to solidify Alexander Hamilton’s place in American history.
William Stephen Hamilton (1797–1850)
William Stephen Hamilton, the fifth son, led a more adventurous life compared to his siblings. He moved westward and became involved in mining and land speculation. William settled in Illinois, where he became a prominent figure in the state’s early development. He served in the Illinois legislature and was instrumental in the founding of the city of Springfield.
William’s life was marked by financial difficulties, and he struggled to achieve the same level of success as his brothers. He died in California during the Gold Rush, seeking fortune but finding little of it.
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Eliza Hamilton Holly (1799–1859)
Eliza Hamilton Holly, the youngest daughter, was named after her mother. She was the only Hamilton child to outlive all of her siblings. Eliza married Sidney Augustus Holly, a businessman, and they lived a relatively quiet life compared to the rest of the Hamilton family.
Eliza was deeply devoted to her mother’s legacy and was involved in various charitable activities. After her husband’s death, she lived with her mother, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton, who had become a prominent figure in New York’s philanthropic community. Eliza continued to support her mother’s charitable work until she died in 1859.
Philip Hamilton (the Second) (1802–1884)
The youngest child, also named Philip after his deceased older brother, was born just months after the tragic duel that claimed his brother’s life. Known as “Little Phil,” he was raised in the shadow of the family’s grief. Philip pursued a career in law and became a successful lawyer in New York City. Despite the family’s tragic history, Philip managed to live a relatively stable life and was remembered as a kind and generous man.
Conclusion
The children of Alexander Hamilton led lives marked by both privilege and tragedy. Raised in the spotlight of their father’s prominence, they faced immense pressure to uphold the family legacy. Some, like Alexander Jr. and John Church Hamilton, succeeded in preserving and promoting their father’s contributions to American history.
Others, like Philip and Angelica, were less fortunate, their lives cut short or marred by personal suffering. Yet, each of Hamilton’s children contributed in their way to the story of the early United States, leaving a legacy that continues to be remembered and studied today.
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