A letter from Alexander Hamilton Concerning the Public Conduct and Character of John Adams ESQ, President of the United States was a pamphlet written by Alexander Hamilton and published during the 1800 presidential election between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson.[1] Although Hamilton, who was a devote Federalist, had been critical of both Adams economic and foreign policies in his past administration, the pamphlet was the first time he publicly criticized him.
It began, "Not denying to Mr Adams patriotism and integrity and even talents of a certain kind," and went on to assert that he was unfit for the office of Chief Magistrate" on account of lack of sound judgment, eccentricity, inability to preserver, 'vanity beyond bounds, and "a jealousy capable of discoloring every subject".[2]
Hamilton had intended to privately circulate the pamphlet among federalist leaders but this attempt failed because a rival of Adams, Aaron Burr, made sure that it was widely circulated.[3] As a result of the widespread distribution, Hamilton's publishing of the pamphlet was seen as an act of political suicide. Ironically, Burr later murdered Hamilton in a duel in which Hamilton refused to shoot.[4]
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References
- ↑ https://www.archives.gov/national-archives-experience/charters/constitution_founding_fathers_new_york.html
- ↑ Paul Johnson, History of the American People, page. 241
- ↑ Paul Johnson, A History of the American People, page. 242
- ↑ http://bioguide.congress.gov/scripts/biodisplay.pl?index=H000101