The 12 Letters That Preceded The Burr-Hamilton Duel

On the morning of July 11, 1804, a sitting Vice President of the United States shot and subsequently killed a Founding Father. Imagine the headlines and talk shows if that happened today!?

There are plenty of books and websites — even films and humorous web videos — to browse for background and analysis on the famous duel.  Going back in time to a key primary source, the July 25, 1804 Massachusetts Spy printed 12 letters exchanged between Aaron Burr, Alexander Hamilton and their seconds in the days that preceded the duel.  The issue also contains a wealth of other important content related to the event, including Alexander Hamilton’s last will and testament, which he wrote the day before the duel. Click the images below to browse the July 25, 1804 “extra” issue of the Massachusetts Spy.