Alexander Hamilton
Alexander Hamilton was one of the most influential figures in American history. He served as a soldier, statesman, and founding father of the United States during its early years. Born on January 11th, 1755, in Nevis, British West Indies, to Rachel Fawcett Lavien and James Hamilton Sr., he had an extraordinary life that would shape the future of America for generations to come.
Hamilton's career began with his service in the Revolutionary War. He rose through the ranks quickly due to his exceptional leadership abilities and became George Washington's right-hand man by 1777. During this time period, he wrote 51 out of 85 essays published in The Federalist Papers arguing for strong central government powers and ultimately helped ratify the US Constitution (1787). Afterward, President Washington appointed him as Secretary of the Treasury where Hamilton implemented numerous financial reforms such as creating a national bank & issuing debt certificates backed by federal taxes from tariffs & excise duties. His fiscal policies stabilized public credit and established economic foundations upon which America has grown into what it is today: the world's largest economy.
After leaving office in 1795, Hamilton remained active politically until 1804 when he died at age 49 after being shot by Aaron Burr during their infamous duel near Weehawken, NJ. Although some historians have criticized certain aspects of his legacy, such as favoring elitism or having ties to slavery owners, overall there is no doubt that Alexander Hamilton's contributions were instrumental in making America great again after independence from Britain & laying down the solid foundation blocks needed for long-term success in the future.