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Burr is Orpaned at a Young Age
Both Burr's parents die with a few years of each other. His father died of exhaustion at 41 years old. His mother died of smallpox at 26 years old. This left Aaron and his sister, Sarah, orphaned. -
Going to College at Age 13
After being raised by Dr. William Shippen Sr, and his wife, Burr goes and completes college. He does this in New Jersey at age 13. Before this, he was initially rejected at age 11. -
The Start of Burr in the Military
Wanting to join the revolution, he went to George to ask for a commission (a group of men to command) but was unable to receive one. He joined Benedict Arnold’s expedition to Quebec. He soon achieved the rank of major and was appointed to serve under George Washington -
Burr Retires from the Military
Burr is promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and takes control of William Malcolm’s regiment. He leads farmers against British Loyalists in a defensive raid. He retires on March 10, two years later -
After the War; Attorney in New York
After the war, Burr went back to New York. He finished his studies and practiced law. He spent six years doing this and eventually became Attorney General in New York. He also marries widow, Theodosia Prevost. -
Becoming Senator in New York
Burr defeats Alexander Hamilton's father-in-law and takes his seat as United States Senator in New York. He also joins the Democrat-Republican party. After serving his term as Senator he went back to the General Assembly in New York City. -
Vice President Aaron Burr
Aaron Burr became a candidate for the 1800 election against Thomas Jefferson for President. Jefferson and Burr tied in electoral votes during the election and it went to the House of Representatives to decide. Hamilton spoke out against Burr and supported Jefferson, who had been his previous enemy. Jefferson won and became president as Burr became vice. Burr was enraged, as he believed that Hamilton had manipulated the House of Representatives. -
The Duel That Would Define His Legacy
After letters are exchanged between Hamilton and Burr, Burr is furious at Hamilton and challenges to a duel. This was a common way to settle disputes during this time. Two people would meet, walk 10 paces away from each other, turn around, and shoot. Alexander Hamilton shoots into a nearby tree, "throwing away his shot", and Burr shoots Hamilton. Hamilton dies the next day and Burr is charged with murder charges. -
Aaron Burr Ruins His Political Career
Seeming like he descended into madness, Burr is put on trial for treason. According to the accusations against him, he planned to create an independent country in the center of North America (today south-western United States). Burr protested with that he actually planned to take 40,000 acres in Texas Territory leased by Spain. He was arrested for treason, even thought there was no strong evidence. This destroyed Burr's political career. -
Death after All That He Has Lost
Burr suffers another stroke after having one previously, this paralyzes him and he is immobile. After marrying a rich widow, Madame Eliza Jumel, in 1833, she files a divorce. Burr at this point is broke financially and broken as a person. Burr dies at Continental Hotel, Port Richmond, Staten Island. Ironically, the divorce is approved this day as well.
