Before skyrocketing to fame as the main character of the hit Broadway musical named after him, Alexander Hamilton built his life in a way that landed him in all of the history books. Although he never made it to the position of President, he caused waves in the US political world during the time of the country’s birth. He was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence and served as the Secretary of State from 1789 to 1795, under President George Washington.
Non-fiction reads are always a good way to learn more about past historical figures. We have compiled a various list of five books that reveal a bit more on the life of Hamilton, with a special bonus book at the end. So, do not throw away your shot, and read on!
Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow
Clocking in at 818 pages, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Chernow crafts an exhaustive biography of Hamilton from his birth to his death. Starting at the beginning, detailing Hamilton growing up as an orphan in the Caribbean, Chernow narrates the path of Hamilton’s destiny, which led him to stand alongside historical figures, such as George Washington and James Madison, as they took on the role of shaping America. Chernow’s work also analyzes the gossip in Hamilton’s life, such as his romantic courting of his wife Eliza and his scandalous affair with Maria Reynolds.
The Jewish World of Alexander Hamilton by Andrew Porwancher
Since the details of Hamilton’s early life in the Caribbean are not completely documented, Andrew Porwancher investigated Hamilton’s upbringing as a child and suggests that he may have been raised Jewish. Although not officially confirmed, Porwancher provides evidence of Hamilton’s connection with the Jewish community. It is suggested that this connection guided his actions and attitudes, allowing him to create more inclusion for the Jewish population.
Eliza Hamilton: The Extraordinary Life and Times of the Wife of Alexander Hamilton by Tilar J. Mazzeo
To perceive Hamilton in a different perspective, one should read the biography of a person that was closest to him in his adult life: his wife, Eliza Hamilton. The book serves as evidence that Eliza was not only Alexander’s wife, but an extremely important figure in history. Her narrative spans from before her fateful meeting of Hamilton to after his death, while she still served her community as a well respected philanthropist.
Alexander Hamilton: The Graphic History of an American Founding Father by Jonathan Hennessey
While biographies can sometimes be tedious and wordy, this graphic novel provides an interactive format that allows readers to learn more about Hamilton in a visual method. Follow along in this 176-page graphic novel, as Johnathan Hennessey provides the script for Justin Greenword’s colorful illustrations.
The Whiskey Rebellion: George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and the Frontier Rebels Who Challenged America’s Newfound Sovereignty by William Hogeland
Hogeland’s work offers another view of Hamilton. His perspective reveals the tensions between the people and the founders as citizens rose up against increased taxes on whiskey. These tax hikes on whiskey were initiated by Alexander Hamilton and George Washington. It provides readers with a narrative that was previously not well known.
The Federalist Papers by Alexander Hamilton
As a bonus to this list, we wanted to include Hamilton’s The Federalist Papers. Historically, this is a collection of 85 essays penned by Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay. The papers, published in 1788, were used to promote the ratification of the new Constitution to the people of America.
From a number of different authors and narratives, we can learn more about this historical figure and gain a more accurate representation of who Alexander Hamilton was. So next time we listen to Lin Manuel Miranda’s musical, we have a better understanding of this character who helped shape America.
Looking for more recommendations in non-fiction? Check out our article Nonfiction Redemption: Misunderstood Female Figures Throughout History!
To read more about America, from different perspectives, check out our recommendations from our bookshelf, American Tour Series: Authors and Novels From Each Region of the US!
