The conflict between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton had deep roots. Hamilton, a prominent Federalist, had repeatedly opposed the political ambitions of Burr, who was a DemocraticRepublican. This included Burr’s bid for the presidency in 1800 and his campaign for governor of New York in 1804. The Vice President viewed Hamilton’s actions as slanderous and damaging to his career, and tensions escalated when Hamilton allegedly made derogatory remarks about Burr at a dinner party, which were later published.

Feeling his honour was at stake, Burr challenged Hamilton to a duel. On the morning of July 11, the men met in Weehawken, New Jersey, where laws against duelling were less strictly enforced. While the exact details of the duel remain unclear due to conflicting accounts, it is generally accepted that Hamilton fired first, deliberately missing Burr. Burr then aimed and shot Hamilton in the lower abdomen. Mortally wounded, Hamilton was transported back to New York City, where he died the following day.

Hamilton’s death shocked the nation, as he was a leading figure in American politics and instrumental in the country’s founding. While his death weakened the influence of the Federalist Party, the duel also marked the beginning of Burr’s political downfall. Although he completed his term as vice president, he was charged with murder in both New York and New Jersey. Neither charge led to a conviction, but left his reputation irreparably damaged. His later years were marked by controversy and scandal, and he even faced charges of treason related to an alleged plot to establish and lead an independent country.