American Experience (1988)

Episode Overview

The intense duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr in 1804 is described by narrator Linda Hunt as a confrontation between “the founder of American capitalism and the first modern American politician.” The episode features insights into the lives of Burr (1756-1836) and Hamilton (1757-1804), highlighting their contrasting political views. During the nation's formative years, political affiliations were still evolving, leading historian Joanne Freeman to remark that “the political and the personal mixed in.” Rene Auberjonois lends his voice to Hamilton, while Brian Dennehy voices Burr.