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Aaron Burr

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description Aaron Burr Overview

Aaron Burr was an American lawyer and Democratic-Republican politician who served as the third Vice President of the United States from 1801 to 1805. He killed former Treasury Secretary Alexander Hamilton in a duel at Weehawken, New Jersey, in 1804. In 1807, Burr was tried for treason in connection with an alleged plan to establish an independent state in the western part of North America and was acquitted.

help Aaron Burr FAQ

Why did Aaron Burr duel Alexander Hamilton?

Burr, the sitting Vice President, challenged Hamilton after years of political hostility and Hamilton's disparaging remarks during Burr's failed 1804 New York gubernatorial campaign. They fought at Weehawken, New Jersey, on July 11, 1804, and Hamilton died from his wounds the next day.

What was Aaron Burr tried for in 1807?

Burr was tried for treason over an alleged conspiracy to create an independent territory in the American Southwest. He was acquitted by a court presided over by Chief Justice John Marshall, who applied a strict definition of treason.

Did Aaron Burr almost become President of the United States?

Yes. In the 1800 election Burr and Thomas Jefferson tied in electoral votes, and it took the House of Representatives 36 ballots to elect Jefferson, making Burr the third Vice President (1801-1805) under Jefferson.

What happened to Aaron Burr after his treason trial?

After his acquittal in 1807, Burr spent several years in self-imposed exile in Europe before returning to New York and resuming his law practice. He died in 1836.