Alexander Hamilton

by Ron Chernow
Alexander Hamilton cover
Good Books rating 4.6
Biography and Memoir
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Waterstones
Paperback • £16.99 Audio disc • £1.00
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 139
  • Added: 2025-09-03
  • Updated: 2025-10-21
  • ISBN: 9781786691309
  • Published: 2017-08-10
  • Formats: 72
  • Reviews: 3

Alexander Hamilton was an illegitimate, largely self-taught orphan from the Caribbean who overcame all the odds to become George Washington's aide-de-camp and the first Treasury Secretary of the United States. Few figures in American history are more controversial. In this masterful work, Chernow shows how the political and economic power of America today is the result of Hamilton's willingness to champion ideas that were often wildly disputed during his time. He charts his titanic feuds with Jefferson, Adams, Madison, Monroe and Burr; his highly public affair with Maria Reynolds; his loving marriage to his loyal wife Eliza; and the notorious duel with Aaron Burr that led to his death in July 1804. The book was adapted into a hugely successful Broadway musical - winner of 11 Tony awards - which opens at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London in November 2017.

Reviews
Night Reads · 2025-09-03
engaging 4.60

Ron Chernow's biography is a captivating and insightful exploration of Hamilton’s life, recommended especially for history enthusiasts.

The reviewer praises the book for its detailed and engaging narrative that brings Alexander Hamilton’s story to life with clarity and depth. They note how the biography is a must-read for those interested in American history, describing it as both captivating and insightful. The biography is appreciated for balancing Hamilton’s political achievements with his personal life, providing a full picture of the man behind the legacy.

Quick quotes

    A captivating life of Alexander Hamilton through Ron Chernow's insightful biography.

    A must-read for history buffs and fans of American political history.

    Chernow’s narrative style makes the complex life story accessible and engaging.

The Boar · 2025-09-03
intriguing 4.50

The biography offers a lyrical and detailed portrayal of Alexander Hamilton, emphasizing his rise from adversity to become a towering figure in American history.

The review highlights Chernow's skill in weaving a lyrical narrative that captures Hamilton’s resilience and towering legacy. The biography is appreciated for shining a light on Hamilton’s origins as an illegitimate orphan and how he overcame tremendous obstacles to shape the foundations of the United States. The reviewer values the depth of insight into Hamilton’s character and his lasting impact on American government and finance.

Quick quotes

    Alexander Hamilton remains a towering figure in American history.

    A lyrical look at an American Founding Father who overcame all odds.

    Chernow's work captures the spirit and complexities of Hamilton’s life.

Amazon UK · 2025-09-03
excellent 4.70

The biography is widely praised for its captivating, well-researched, and elegant writing that brings Alexander Hamilton's complex life vividly to life.

This biography is considered one of the most comprehensive and insightful accounts of Alexander Hamilton's life. Readers appreciate Ron Chernow's meticulous research and storytelling style that makes the historical figure accessible and engaging, revealing Hamilton's remarkable achievements and complex character. The book is noted for its depth and ability to provide a nuanced portrait, offering both admiration for Hamilton and a critical examination of his flaws and challenges.

Quick quotes

    One of the most captivating, fascinating, perceptive, well-researched and elegantly written biographies I've ever read.

    Chernow shows how the political and economic power of Hamilton helped to shape modern America.

    A mammoth work of research that charted the course of Alexander Hamilton's life.

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