The Remarkable Union Of Eliza Schuyler And Alexander Hamilton: A Love Story Beyond Class

When Elizabeth “Eliza” Schuyler married Alexander Hamilton in December 1780, the pair would have seemed like a great mismatch on paper. She was rich, he was poor. She came from a well-established, highly-regarded family, he was an orphaned immigrant. But despite these differences, the pair formed a lasting bond that has been the subject of numerous books and the award-winning musical, Hamilton.

Eliza's Noble Heritage and Influential Family

Born in August 1757, Eliza was one of eight surviving children of Philip Schuyler and Catherine Van Rensselaer. Catherine, affectionately known as Kitty, descended from one of New York State’s oldest and most respected Dutch families. She was a well-known beauty and a socialite in Albany, captivating many with her charm.

Philip Schuyler, Eliza’s father, was also from a prestigious lineage. He commanded a militia during the French and Indian War in the 1750s and became a significant landowner in Albany. His political involvement included multiple terms in the Continental Congress and planning key Revolutionary War battles, such as the turning point victory at Saratoga in 1777. His political career continued when he served as a U.S. senator from New York from 1789 to 1791.

Hamilton's Humble Beginnings

Unlike Eliza, Hamilton’s prospects were bleak from the start. Born around 1755 on the island of Nevis in the British West Indies, he faced a tumultuous childhood. His mother, Rachel Faucette, was born to British and French Huguenot parents and struggled after being abandoned by Hamilton’s father. After her death in 1768, Hamilton was left an orphan, which shaped his future ambitions.

Despite his challenging beginnings, Hamilton possessed remarkable intelligence and ambition. He worked at a local import-export firm, impressing his employers with his skills. His passion for education led him to write an impactful essay about a hurricane that devastated Nevis, prompting local businessmen to fund his move to America for further education.

Becoming Influential Figures Amidst Revolutionary Times

Hamilton attended King’s College, now known as Columbia University, where he immersed himself in the political debates of pre-war New York City. As a teenager, he gained recognition for his pamphlets advocating for the Revolutionary cause. His desire to prove himself led him to form an artillery company and serve in critical battles during the war.

Through his military endeavors, Hamilton caught the attention of several Colonial generals, but he declined their offers to join their staffs. When George Washington requested Hamilton to be his aide-de-camp, it marked the beginning of a significant relationship that would shape both their lives, with Hamilton finding a father figure in Washington.

A Blossoming Relationship Between Social Classes