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Alexander Hamilton

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2004

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Book Brief

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Ron Chernow

Alexander Hamilton

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

832

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 18th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow chronicles Hamilton's remarkable journey from his birth in the Caribbean to his influential role in the founding of the United States, showcasing his legal expertise, military leadership, and political acumen as a fervent advocate for federalism, while also delving into his personal challenges and eventual death in a duel with Aaron Burr. The book addresses issues of slavery and infidelity.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

217,902 ratings

84%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton is widely praised for its comprehensive research and engaging narrative, breathing life into one of America's Founding Fathers. Critics appreciate Chernow's ability to make complex historical details accessible, though some note its dense length. Notably, the book’s depth enriches understanding but may overwhelm casual readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Alexander Hamilton?

A reader who appreciates meticulous detail and narrative drive in historical biographies, such as those found in David McCullough’s John Adams, will relish Ron Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton. This book suits history enthusiasts and fans of in-depth political and personal character studies, offering rich insights into America's founding era.

4.5

217,902 ratings

84%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Alexander Hamilton

An intellectually curious and courageous figure whose ambitions were aimed at influencing large outcomes; he was known for his detailed writings and his complex personal struggles.

The reserved and stoic general and president, who valued Hamilton as a confidante and appreciated his loquaciousness and dedication during the Revolutionary War and his presidency.

A calculating politician and face of the anti-Federalists, who maintained an air of humility while being deeply suspicious and critical of Hamilton.

A lawyer and politician known more for his self-serving nature and desire for power, whose life intersected tragically with Hamilton's in a duel.

Book Details
Pages

832

Format

Biography • Nonfiction

Setting

United States • 18th Century

Publication Year

2004

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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