Alexander Hamilton was born on January 11, either in 1755 or 1757, in the British West Indies (on the island of Nevis). His unmarried mother died in 1768. Hamilton worked from the age of twelve until 1772, when wealthy relatives sent him to attend college in New York, but he dropped out to become part of the growing American independence movement. During the Revolutionary War he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel and was a closely trusted aide of General George Washington. He also had a close relationship with John Laurens, another of Washington's inner circle, and they exchanged fond letters to each other when stationed apart. Some historians infer from these letters that Hamilton and Laurens shared a deep romantic relationship, despite both having wives. After the Revolutionary War, Hamilton served as the first U.S. Treasury Secretary under President Washington. He also practiced law in New York. He died on July 12, 1804, in a famous duel with longtime political rival Aaron Burr. For more on Alexander Hamilton, including excerpts of his letters with John Laurens, visit “Alexander Hamilton and John Laurens, 1779-1782,” by Jonathan Ned Katz