It's been awhile since I have read historical fiction. Now I remember why I love it so much! This is an intensely readable story about the life of Alexander Hamilton's wife, Eliza Schuyler Hamilton. This book provoked some strong feelings for me: admiration for Eliza for her strength, intelligence and loyalty; disgust for Aaron Burr; a strong distaste for Thomas Jefferson; intense disappointment in James Monroe; gratitude for George Washington & James Madison; and, deservedly, mixed feelings for Alexander Hamilton.
Now of course this was written from Eliza & Alexander's point of view as Federalists - and Jefferson and his "lackeys" were Republican - so obviously there were very strong, opposing feelings between the two parties. This book is also an excellent reminder that our nation's founders certainly had their issues, not unlike what our current political parties demonstrate on a daily basis. One positive difference today is that the opposing parties don't call each other out for duels of honor.
There were three "comments" I flagged as I was reading. It's so like present day that it reminds me that things really don't ever change!!
1) In 1784, James Monroe commented, "We never accomplish anything in Congress. We couldn't pass Mr. Jefferson's Land Ordinance for admitting new states to the Union, because it bans slavery after the year 1800. We couldn't pass Mr. Jefferson's proposal to make the dollar a national currency. We can't agree on a site for our nation's capital - or even if we are a nation, or a collection of states." This sounds like every Board or Leadership meeting that I have ever been involved with!!
2) In 1799, Eliza ruminated how "....our political parties seemed often now on the verge of civil war; just last year, two congressmen had come to blows with cane and fire-iron tongs on the floor of the House of Representatives." Ha! Now they just fight each other on social media!
3) In 1801, after the Presidential election, Eliza commented, "For Jefferson was the president. And there was nothing to do but survive the outcome." and "I could only hope his gamble paid off - especially since Martha Washington called Jefferson's election 'the greatest misfortune our nation has ever experienced.' Oh, if she only knew what was in store for our nation in the future!
My heart broke for Eliza again and again for her losses and the betrayals she suffered. She outlived them all though! She lived to the age of 97, dying 50 years after Alexander! Her strength despite her numerous hardships was impressive. And while she suffered herself, she helped those around her in even more need.
I really loved this book!
Wendy's Rating: *****
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