Who Was? 1776 Collection of 7

Who Was Alexander Hamilton?

Born in the British West Indies and orphaned as a child, Alexander Hamilton made his way to the American Colonies and studied to become a lawyer. He joined a local militia during the American Revolution, rose to the rank of Major General, and became the chief aide to General George Washington.

After the war, he became the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. He founded the Bank of New York and The New York Post newspaper. He served as a delegate to the Constitutional Convention and is also celebrated as a coauthor of The Federalist Papers, a series of essays that are still used today to interpret the U.S. Constitution.

The end of his life became a national scandal when he was shot and killed in a duel with then-Vice President Aaron Burr.

Who Was Abigail Adams?

Abigail Adams was a strong woman far ahead of her time.

Who Was Ben Franklin?

Ben Franklin was the scientist who, with the help of a kite, discovered that lightning is electricity. He was also a statesman, an inventor, a printer, and an author-a man of such amazingly varied talents that some people claimed he had magical powers!

Who Was George Washington?

In 1789, George Washington became the first president of the United States. He has been called the father of our country for leading America through its early years. Washington also served in two major wars during his lifetime: the French and Indian War and the American Revolution.

Who Was Thomas Jefferson?

Did you know that John Adams had to coax Thomas Jefferson into writing the Declaration of Independence? It’s true. The shy Virginia statesman refused at first, but then went on to author one of our nation’s most important and inspiring documents. The third U.S. president, Jefferson was also an architect, inventor, musician, farmer, and-what is certainly the most troubling aspect of his life-a slave owner.

Who Was Paul Revere?

In 1775, Paul Revere of Boston made his now-famous horseback ride warning colonists of an impending attack by the British.

What Is the Declaration of Independence?

Colonists were willing to risk their lives for freedom, and the Declaration of Independence made that official.