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Death of Alexander Hamilton with his thoughts on dueling, his justification, etc...



Item # 615251

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July 20, 1804

MIDDLESEX GAZETTE, Middletown, Connecticut, July 20, 1804  Pages 2 & 3 have a black-bordered report with much on the death of Alexander Hamilton as a result of a duel with Aaron Burr. It begins: "With emotions that we have not a hand to inscribe, have we to announce the death of ALEXANDER HAMILTON. He was cut off in the 48th year of his age, in the full vigor of his faculties & in the midst of all his usefulness..." with more editorial commentary on his life. it is followed by a fascinating letter from his friend & pastor, concerning Hamilton's request to receive communion, the minster refusing to do so at first, Hamilton's plea & agreeing to never duel again should he live, etc. (see).
This is then followed by the text of a paper by Hamilton shortly before the duel noting the reasons for the action, bits including: "My religion and moral principles are strongly opposed to the practice of dueling...My wife & children are extremely dear to me...I am conscious of no ill will to Col. Burr distinct from political opposition...But it was, as I conceive, impossible for me to avoid it..." with much more on his justification for the duel, signed in type at the end: A. H.  This is then followed by his: "Will" which is signed in type: Alexander Hamilton.
Four pages, slightly irregular at the spine, some foxing spots, generally very nice condition.

Category: Pre-Civil War