The Essential Hamilton: Letters & Other Writings

He had bombast and style. He was learned and witty. He was persuasive and funny and driven. And he was willing to make enemies, so long as he accomplished his myriad goals. He was Alexander Hamilton, and even before his exploits were brought to the stage by Lin-Manuel Miranda, he was one of the most influential and controversial figures in American history.

The Essential Hamilton allows the reader to explore Hamilton through his own words, collecting major works–like some of his contributions to The Federalist Papers–alongside personal letters and other missives that grant deeper insight into the man, warts and all. In this book, you’ll find Hamilton both funny and flirtatious, aggressive and inspired. You’ll find a devoted husband, a loving father, a loyal friend, a fierce rival, a vicious manipulator, a cunning negotiator, and an ambitious entrepreneur.

The editor provides valuable context for many of these pieces, explaining cultural references and social mores of the time and helping the reader get the most out of the experience.

The Essential Hamilton is precisely that, a window into a man as complex, impressive, and flawed as any in American history.