Alexander Hamilton - Colonial America

This lesson explores the life and contributions of Alexander Hamilton during the American War of Independence. Students will learn about his early life, role in the war, and his impact on the newly formed United States. Activities include sorting timeline events, analyzing primary sources, and writing a PEEKA paragraph on Hamilton’s significance. The lesson concludes with a discussion on Hamilton’s legacy and his role in shaping the nation.

Lesson Content and Activities:

Introduction:
Discuss Alexander Hamilton’s background and significance in American history.
Watch a video on Hamilton and write down key points.

Timeline Activity:
Sort timeline cards into the correct chronological order, covering key events such as his immigration, participation in the American Revolution, authoring the Federalist Papers, serving as the first Secretary of the Treasury, and his duel with Aaron Burr.

Immigration to the Mainland Colonies:
Learn about Hamilton’s early life, his immigration from the West Indies, and his enrollment in King’s College.
Discuss how his education and location placed him at the heart of growing unrest.

Participation in the American Revolution:
Examine Hamilton’s role in the Revolution, his leadership in the New York militia, and his position as aide-de-camp to General George Washington.
Read primary sources and make notes on his contributions.

Authoring the Federalist Papers:
Discuss Hamilton’s co-authoring of the Federalist Papers with James Madison and John Jay.
Analyze how these essays promoted the ratification of the United States Constitution and shaped the American government.

First Secretary of the Treasury:
Learn about Hamilton’s policies as the first Secretary of the Treasury, including the creation of the U.S. Treasury, the federal tax system, and the Bank of the United States.
Discuss the impact of his financial policies on the new nation.

Duel with Aaron Burr and Death:
Discuss the famous duel with Aaron Burr, the reasons behind it, and its outcome.
Reflect on how this event has been remembered in American history.

Writing Task:
Write a PEEKA paragraph explaining Hamilton’s impact on the American Revolution and the early United States.
Use sentence starters and provide detailed evidence.

Class Discussion:
Share and discuss the PEEKA paragraphs.
Reflect on Hamilton’s legacy and his contributions to the formation of the United States.

Resources:
Video link on Alexander Hamilton
Timeline cards
Primary source documents
PEEKA paragraph guidelines