Skip to main content

Get the Reddit app

Scan this QR code to download the app now
Or check it out in the app stores
Go to hamiltonmusical
r/hamiltonmusical

News and discussion about *Hamilton* by Lin-Manuel Miranda


Members Online

Why Did Aaron Burr Duel Hamilton When He Loved His Daughter?

TW for the whole Hamilton-Burr duel

Okay, so sources say that Aaron Burr loved his daughter. He made sure she was educated, taught her feminist values (even though he, himself, wasn't such a real feminist), etc. Her (his daughter, Theodosia) mother had already passed away. So why, in the name of G-d, did he go to the duel to kill Hamilton? Sources also say that he was prepping to actually fire at Hamilton. Either way (if he threw away his shot or let Hamilton shoot him), it'd impact her negatively—one, her father would die, leaving her an orphan. Or, two, he'd be a murderer, making her live in the shadow of a killer. If he loved his daughter, why did he go to the duel?

Even if it was an honor thing, people saw him preparing to kill Hamilton. He could've thrown away his shot like Hamilton. In fact, Hamilton had clearly stated to multiple people that he planned to throw it away. It's possible that Burr knew his plans.

I may not understand because I didn't live during his time. I may not understand because I don't have children. I may not understand for a multitude of reasons. But, I feel that if I was Theodosia, I'd be fuming.

Thank you for coming to my TED Talk. That is all, goodnight, farewell.