Why Did Lin-Manuel Miranda Write a Musical About Alexander Hamilton?

One of the most interesting and widely recognized phenomena in contemporary American theater is the Hamilton musical, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The story focuses on the life of Alexander Hamilton, often presenting him as a heroic figure in the founding of the United States. However, the real Alexander Hamilton was far from the saintly figure portrayed in the Broadway hit, as he was a key player in the exploitation of the American people and the consolidation of power among a small group of elites.

Myth Perpetuation and Political Discussion

The rampant myth-making around figures like Alexander Hamilton through shows like Hamilton perpetuates a version of history that hinders meaningful political discussion. By portraying Hamilton as a paragon of virtue, we fail to recognize the systematic exploitation and the dark underpinnings of the revolution and its aftermath. This narrative, entrenching the myth of Hamilton as a noble and saintly figure, is what sustains this disembodied understanding of our nation's origins and the political processes that have shaped our future.

Alexander Hamilton: A Crook with Financial Acumen

Contrary to the myth, Alexander Hamilton was not a revolutionary hero but a cunning and ambitious man who significantly benefited from the revolution. Hamilton was indeed very good at raising money for the revolutionary cause, but his actions have been described as unethical and unscrupulous. Before the revolution, Hamilton used a dubious financial maneuver to buy up the worthless scrip that had been used to pay the soldiers. When the Congress declared insolvency and the scrip became worthless, Hamilton was able to acquire it for near negligible value. He then convinced the influential figures, Madison and Jefferson, to help him redeem the scrip, which they did, but at the cost of exploiting the American people.

The real reason behind the successful redemption of the scrip was not entirely ethical. Hamilton convinced Madison to support moving the capital to the land he owned, promising it would make the land more valuable. In exchange, Madison agreed to support the redemption of the scrip. By doing so, the manipulation was clear: the money that was supposed to go towards the soldiers and other essential services went into the pockets of the few.

Hamilton's Contributions to the Federalist Papers

Despite the questionable nature of his actions, Alexander Hamilton did make significant contributions to the Federalist Papers. These essays, written by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay, are considered the foundational documents of the U.S. Constitution. Hamilton is credited with providing the most compelling insights and arguments, reflecting his deep understanding of political theory and constitutional law. However, these contributions should be viewed in the context of his broader financial and political manipulations.

The Inspiration Behind the Hamilton Musical

Lin-Manuel Miranda was inspired to create the Hamilton musical after reading a biography of Alexander Hamilton. While the story of Hamilton remains a common thread in historical education, its Broadway counterpart presents him in a dramatically different light. The musical's focus on Hamilton's life offers a unique perspective that has captured the public's imagination, making it a significant contribution to American musical theater.

The selection of Alexander Hamilton as the subject for a Broadway musical is noteworthy because the founding period is relatively neglected within this genre. 1776, which was a hit in the 1970s, represents the closest competition. Miranda saw a gap and capitalized on it, presenting a chronological narrative that begins with the revolutionary period and continues into the early years of the Republic. This focus on Hamilton's life and legacy is an attempt to make the founding period more relatable and engaging to a modern audience.

Conclusion: The Myth and Reality of Hamilton

The mythology of Alexander Hamilton, as perpetuated by the Hamilton musical, reflects a complex historical reality. While Hamilton was indeed a significant figure in the formation of the United States and the crafting of the Constitution, he was also deeply involved in political and financial maneuvering that often exploited the common people. The musical serves as an engaging narrative, but it is crucial to understand the historical context and underlying truths that inform this portrayal.

By recognizing the nuanced nature of Alexander Hamilton's life and the myths that surround him, we can foster a more informed and critical dialogue about the founding of our nation and the political processes that continue to shape us today.