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The Making of America
Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America
The America that Alexander Hamilton knew was largely agricultural and built on slave labor. He envisioned something else: a multi-racial, urbanized, capitalistic America with a strong central government. He believed that such an America would be a land of opportunity for the poor and the newcomers. But Hamilton’s vision put him at odds with his archrivals who envisioned a pastoral America of small towns, where governments were local, states would control their own destiny, and the federal government would remain small and weak.
The disputes that arose during America’s first decades continued through American history to our present day. Over time, because of the systems Hamilton set up and the ideas he left, his vision won out. Here is the story that epitomizes the American dream―a poor immigrant who made good in America. In the end, Hamilton rose from poverty through his intelligence and ability, and did more to shape our country than any of his contemporaries.
Related subjects and concepts discussed in the book include:
Law and Legal Concepts
Due process
Bill of Rights
Freedom of Speech and the Press
Originalism / nonoriginalism (theories of Constitutional interpretation)
Government
Checks and Balances
Democracy
Electoral College
Republic
Financial Concepts
Capitalism
Credit
Inflation
Interest
Mercantilism
Securities: Stocks and Bonds
Tariffs
Taxes
Miscellaneous
Demagogues
Dueling
Pastoralism
About the Series
The Making of America series traces the constitutional history of the United States through overlapping biographies of American men and women. The debates that raged when our nation was founded have been argued ever since: How should the Constitution be interpreted? What is the meaning, and where are the limits of personal liberty? What is the proper role of the federal government? Who should be included in “we the people”? Each biography in the series tells the story of an American leader who helped shape the United States of today.
The disputes that arose during America’s first decades continued through American history to our present day. Over time, because of the systems Hamilton set up and the ideas he left, his vision won out. Here is the story that epitomizes the American dream―a poor immigrant who made good in America. In the end, Hamilton rose from poverty through his intelligence and ability, and did more to shape our country than any of his contemporaries.
Related subjects and concepts discussed in the book include:
Law and Legal Concepts
Due process
Bill of Rights
Freedom of Speech and the Press
Originalism / nonoriginalism (theories of Constitutional interpretation)
Government
Checks and Balances
Democracy
Electoral College
Republic
Financial Concepts
Capitalism
Credit
Inflation
Interest
Mercantilism
Securities: Stocks and Bonds
Tariffs
Taxes
Miscellaneous
Demagogues
Dueling
Pastoralism
About the Series
The Making of America series traces the constitutional history of the United States through overlapping biographies of American men and women. The debates that raged when our nation was founded have been argued ever since: How should the Constitution be interpreted? What is the meaning, and where are the limits of personal liberty? What is the proper role of the federal government? Who should be included in “we the people”? Each biography in the series tells the story of an American leader who helped shape the United States of today.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published March 7, 2017
133 people are currently reading
1301 people want to read
About the author
Teri Kanefield
35 books103 followersI started out teaching English at the college and university level while writing novels, short stories, and children’s books. Then I went to law school, dedicated my law practice to defending people who could not afford to pay, kept writing books, took a detour into writing legal analysis for The Washington Post and other mainstream media outlets, wrote more books, and here I am.
Along the way, my writing has earned numerous awards and honors, including the Jane Addams Book Award, the Orbis Pictus Honor, and the Carter G. Woodson Middle-Grade Level Book Award.
For more about me and my writing, please visit www.terikanefield.com
Along the way, my writing has earned numerous awards and honors, including the Jane Addams Book Award, the Orbis Pictus Honor, and the Carter G. Woodson Middle-Grade Level Book Award.
For more about me and my writing, please visit www.terikanefield.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
April 21, 2017
When it comes to the early history of America, figures like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and John Adams get a lot of press (because they descended to the highest office). Heck, even Benjamin Franklin is very well-known due to his eccentric nature. While Alexander Hamilton was just as instrumental in those early years, he sometimes gets the raw end of the historical bargain, more remember for his duel with Aaron Burr than anything else. In “Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America”, however, author Teri Kanefield brings Hamilton to the forefront of the historical discussion.
In a very readable format (visually diverse; can be enjoyed by YA all the way up), Kanefield examines the key portions of Hamilton’s life and service to the United States of America, including his role in ratifying the Constitution, his hefty contribution to the famous Federalist Papers, and his time spent as the original Secretary of the Treasury (where his ideas on national banking were far ahead of their time). Of course, the infamous duel with Burr is given some ink, but it is actually plays a very small role in this text.
Besides the interesting/engaging visual style (differing text formats, side bars, photos, etc.), perhaps the hallmark of “Hamilton” is its ability to take what can be a complicated period in American History and boil it down to something easily understandable. It doesn’t take a 500+ page bio to accomplish this goal, but rather just Kanefield’s great, concise writing. It’s engaging enough to keep the pages turning, yet educational enough to learn much from the experience. I will admit that I knew very little of Hamilton’s story at the first page, but upon completion I felt like I really had a handle on his place in history.
So, I would highly recommend this book to any school classroom/library or amateur historian wanting to learn the importance of one of America’s most under-appreciated historical figures. With the musical theater production “Hamilton” winning awards left and right, this is the perfect time for more info on Alexander himself.
In a very readable format (visually diverse; can be enjoyed by YA all the way up), Kanefield examines the key portions of Hamilton’s life and service to the United States of America, including his role in ratifying the Constitution, his hefty contribution to the famous Federalist Papers, and his time spent as the original Secretary of the Treasury (where his ideas on national banking were far ahead of their time). Of course, the infamous duel with Burr is given some ink, but it is actually plays a very small role in this text.
Besides the interesting/engaging visual style (differing text formats, side bars, photos, etc.), perhaps the hallmark of “Hamilton” is its ability to take what can be a complicated period in American History and boil it down to something easily understandable. It doesn’t take a 500+ page bio to accomplish this goal, but rather just Kanefield’s great, concise writing. It’s engaging enough to keep the pages turning, yet educational enough to learn much from the experience. I will admit that I knew very little of Hamilton’s story at the first page, but upon completion I felt like I really had a handle on his place in history.
So, I would highly recommend this book to any school classroom/library or amateur historian wanting to learn the importance of one of America’s most under-appreciated historical figures. With the musical theater production “Hamilton” winning awards left and right, this is the perfect time for more info on Alexander himself.
December 19, 2018
For those of you that know me, you know that I am obsessed with the Broadway musical Hamilton. I know all of the songs by heart, and have listened to them more times than I can count. My love for the musical has led me to want to learn all that I can about Alexander Hamilton. Recently I picked up Teri Kanefield's biography of Alexander Hamilton. I thought it was an interesting portrayal.
Teri Kanefield's Alexander Hamilton is intended for a middle grade audience. Truth be told, it reminded me a lot of Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton, only simplified in a way that older children and preteens can understand it a lot better. I think this would be a great way to get a child who loves the musical educated on a more accurate description of what happened in Hamilton's life.
I only wish that the book would have gone into a little bit more detail on Hamilton's relationships with his friends as well. They were just briefly mentioned, and for some of them, it wasn't mentioned how he originally met them at all. Because I had already read Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton, I already knew a lot of the facts that were in this book. However, I did enjoy the excerpts of Hamilton's writing in the back of this book, several of which I had never read before.
I think Teri Kanefield's Alexander Hamilton is a great way for older children and preteens to learn about Alexander Hamilton's life, especially if they enjoy the musical. While I love the musical dearly, some parts of it are not an accurate representation of his life. This book works to correct those parts, and to accurately educate people about him. I will have to see if this author has written about any other historical figures I might be interested in learning more about, or teaching my nieces and nephews about.
Teri Kanefield's Alexander Hamilton is intended for a middle grade audience. Truth be told, it reminded me a lot of Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton, only simplified in a way that older children and preteens can understand it a lot better. I think this would be a great way to get a child who loves the musical educated on a more accurate description of what happened in Hamilton's life.
I only wish that the book would have gone into a little bit more detail on Hamilton's relationships with his friends as well. They were just briefly mentioned, and for some of them, it wasn't mentioned how he originally met them at all. Because I had already read Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton, I already knew a lot of the facts that were in this book. However, I did enjoy the excerpts of Hamilton's writing in the back of this book, several of which I had never read before.
I think Teri Kanefield's Alexander Hamilton is a great way for older children and preteens to learn about Alexander Hamilton's life, especially if they enjoy the musical. While I love the musical dearly, some parts of it are not an accurate representation of his life. This book works to correct those parts, and to accurately educate people about him. I will have to see if this author has written about any other historical figures I might be interested in learning more about, or teaching my nieces and nephews about.
December 23, 2016
I have read and reviewed two of Ms. Kanefield's books. This is the third. I enjoyed this one as much as the first two I have have read. She is an excellent writer. Clear and precise, well researched and informative. The most I knew about Alexander Hamilton was the duel with Aaron Burr. Now thanks to this book I know much more about him and how our country and government was formed. To have lived at that time and watch how our country took shape, what a fascinating time it was. I will make sure that when my grandchildren start studying this part of history that I lend them this book to help learn more than just their textbooks can tell. For me it is helpful to know the man to help understand his motivations. This book helped immensely with getting to know Alexander Hamilton. A truly amazing man with clear ideas of what our country could be. I highly recommend that you read this book. It is a great tool for learning about this man and this time period in America's history. I always enjoy reading Ms. Kanefield's books. I love her writing style and the way she pulls me into the book regardless rather it is fiction or non fiction. I will continue to read Ms. Kanefield's books. Thank you Ms. Kanefield for letting me read your book.
May 24, 2019
Good middle grade biography. I’m going to read this with one group of students starting next week, interspersing chapters with songs from Hamilton (the Broadway musical).
March 23, 2022
I really liked this book: "Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America", written by Teri Kanefield.
It was well written, concise, and interesting as well. I had listened to the Broadway Play of "Hamilton" two different times and really gleaned from it and acquired new interest, and a desire to read more about Alexander Hamilton.
The America that Alexander Hamilton knew was largely agricultural and built on slave labor. He envisioned something else: a multi-racial, urbanized, capitalistic America with a strong central government. He believed that such an America would be a land of opportunity for the poor and the newcomers. But Hamilton's vision put him at odds with his archrivals who envisioned a pastoral America of small towns, where governments were local, states would control their own destiny, and the federal government would remain small and weak. The disputes that arose during America's first decades continued through American history to our present day. Over time, because of the systems Hamilton set up and the ideas he left, his vision won out. Here is the story that epitomizes the American dream--a poor immigrant who made good in America. In the end, Hamilton rose from poverty through his intelligence and ability and did more to shape our country than any of his contemporaries.
It traces Hamilton's journey from being a humble West Indian raised without a father to being General Washington's aide-de-camp and trusted advisor, to his successes and failures in the sphere of politics and the drafting of the Constitution and the Federalist Papers, to his foundational role in the creation of the United States Treasury and the First National Bank. Kanefield highlights the once-polarizing figures enduring legacy and impressive foresight into the trajectory of American history. Self conscious of his humble origins, fiercely opposed by jealous rivals, and intellectually superior to all challengers, Hamilton's tragically brief but remarkable life and career are the embodiment of the American dream as envisioned by the Founding Fathers, the framers of which he is certainly a most important member.
For example, Hamilton, who was an immigrant to the US from the West Indies, successfully argued against constitutionally limiting the roles available for immigrants in the new government. He understood the great benefits immigrants could and should bring to their new country – from which everyone gained, very well planned.
Do we see some of these issues still around today? Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country. In a very readable way, Teri Kanefield takes us through how Hamilton used his skill and expertise to create many key modern aspects of good government. To obtain agreement he sought for compromises acceptable to enough people from diverse factions. In this case, Hamilton had to agree that the role of President would remain open only to US-born people. Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country.
Read this book and you may understand a lot more about how the USA came together as a nation and what is going on in civic and political life today. Good governance benefits a country and its people. Teri Kanefield’s book highlights Alexander Hamilton’s exceptional skills and impact in creating the powerful positive framework of the Constitution which underpins USA today.
Great Book: Highly Recommend.
It was well written, concise, and interesting as well. I had listened to the Broadway Play of "Hamilton" two different times and really gleaned from it and acquired new interest, and a desire to read more about Alexander Hamilton.
The America that Alexander Hamilton knew was largely agricultural and built on slave labor. He envisioned something else: a multi-racial, urbanized, capitalistic America with a strong central government. He believed that such an America would be a land of opportunity for the poor and the newcomers. But Hamilton's vision put him at odds with his archrivals who envisioned a pastoral America of small towns, where governments were local, states would control their own destiny, and the federal government would remain small and weak. The disputes that arose during America's first decades continued through American history to our present day. Over time, because of the systems Hamilton set up and the ideas he left, his vision won out. Here is the story that epitomizes the American dream--a poor immigrant who made good in America. In the end, Hamilton rose from poverty through his intelligence and ability and did more to shape our country than any of his contemporaries.
It traces Hamilton's journey from being a humble West Indian raised without a father to being General Washington's aide-de-camp and trusted advisor, to his successes and failures in the sphere of politics and the drafting of the Constitution and the Federalist Papers, to his foundational role in the creation of the United States Treasury and the First National Bank. Kanefield highlights the once-polarizing figures enduring legacy and impressive foresight into the trajectory of American history. Self conscious of his humble origins, fiercely opposed by jealous rivals, and intellectually superior to all challengers, Hamilton's tragically brief but remarkable life and career are the embodiment of the American dream as envisioned by the Founding Fathers, the framers of which he is certainly a most important member.
For example, Hamilton, who was an immigrant to the US from the West Indies, successfully argued against constitutionally limiting the roles available for immigrants in the new government. He understood the great benefits immigrants could and should bring to their new country – from which everyone gained, very well planned.
Do we see some of these issues still around today? Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country. In a very readable way, Teri Kanefield takes us through how Hamilton used his skill and expertise to create many key modern aspects of good government. To obtain agreement he sought for compromises acceptable to enough people from diverse factions. In this case, Hamilton had to agree that the role of President would remain open only to US-born people. Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country.
Read this book and you may understand a lot more about how the USA came together as a nation and what is going on in civic and political life today. Good governance benefits a country and its people. Teri Kanefield’s book highlights Alexander Hamilton’s exceptional skills and impact in creating the powerful positive framework of the Constitution which underpins USA today.
Great Book: Highly Recommend.
April 7, 2021
Describes the life of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States. Emphasizes his work during the American Revolution, with the Constitution, and the founding of the national bank.
NC MBOB selection 2021/2022. While child appropriate, it does paint Hamilton in only a positive light.
NC MBOB selection 2021/2022. While child appropriate, it does paint Hamilton in only a positive light.
February 20, 2018
First sentence: On a mild summer morning just after dawn, two men met on the dueling grounds in Weehawken, New Jersey.
Premise/plot: Teri Kanefield has written a biography of Alexander Hamilton for children. (I'd say the intended audience was the eight to twelve age group.) In a way, the book is both a biography of a man, Alexander Hamilton, and a nation, the newly formed United States of America. How did Alexander Hamilton help shape America? What legacy did he leave behind him? Are his ideas still impacting and influencing our nation and our politics today?
My thoughts: I love HAMILTON. I would recommend this one to any fan of the musical. It is well-written and researched, and the pacing is great. It's a quick read. Books like this one give nonfiction a good reputation. Where were books like this when I was a kid?!?!
October 13, 2017
I like how this biography started out with a bit of a mystery for young readers, something to think about as they read. This was a good biography, not too dry. I was fascinated by things I didn't know but kids might find some of the details on nation-building boring.
December 20, 2023
TOP 5 Reasons why you should read
THE MAKING OF AMERICA ALEXANDER HAMILTON
Let's dive into the historical fiction THE MAKING OF AMERICA ALEXANDER HAMILTON that will blow your mind with the significance this book holds.
1.Character growth: we follow Alexander Hamilton’s growth from when he was young to his death, a real historical legend in all his glory.
2.The Hook: What really got me interested in this book was seeing the end of him in only the first four pages. It was a shock that the end of his life became the beginning of the story.
3.The Historical Events:within this book there have been meanings of other events in the real world at that time not only of himself like when he mentions European aristocrats (p. 11)
4.The Audience: I believe people who take a large interest into history and specifically american history would enjoy this although this book is not only made for young historians anyone can enjoy this book.
5.The setting of this book: When I was reading I could really feel the energy of the book and where the writer was coming from. This book Also introduce images of the scenery to help me better understand the events of the text
THE MAKING OF AMERICA ALEXANDER HAMILTON
Let's dive into the historical fiction THE MAKING OF AMERICA ALEXANDER HAMILTON that will blow your mind with the significance this book holds.
1.Character growth: we follow Alexander Hamilton’s growth from when he was young to his death, a real historical legend in all his glory.
2.The Hook: What really got me interested in this book was seeing the end of him in only the first four pages. It was a shock that the end of his life became the beginning of the story.
3.The Historical Events:within this book there have been meanings of other events in the real world at that time not only of himself like when he mentions European aristocrats (p. 11)
4.The Audience: I believe people who take a large interest into history and specifically american history would enjoy this although this book is not only made for young historians anyone can enjoy this book.
5.The setting of this book: When I was reading I could really feel the energy of the book and where the writer was coming from. This book Also introduce images of the scenery to help me better understand the events of the text
July 11, 2020
This is an astoundingly well-written, well-informed, and mature book especially when it’s targeted audience of children is taken into account. I am left really happy with the amount of information I absorbed as well as with the way the information was presented. It was exciting and engaging to read, not letting itself get bogged down with unnecessary names and dates but also not letting any important detail pass by. I found myself extremely excited to read the more political parts of running a new nation and surviving elections but I’m not sure if that’s because I’m just interested in the politics or if the way it was written made it much easier to understand; I think it might be a combination of both. I’m amazing that this is a children’s book because even though I am above the targeted age demographic I still learned a lot of really good and valuable information out of it, and I don’t usually feel satisfied with how little information children’s biographies give. I plan on learning a lot more about my good boy Ham along with other important people of the American Revolution and how they built a government after they had won. I overall really really enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone and everyone!
April 30, 2019
3.5 stars This is a good simple biography that outlines the major contributions made by Hamilton. I read Ron Chenow's biography last year and that maybe had too much info for me, and this needed a little more. That said it's perfect for an introduction to Hamilton.
February 9, 2022
it was good, read for school
well written, but i'm not typically a fan of biographies
well written, but i'm not typically a fan of biographies
July 13, 2024
Loved it read it like 3 times left out a few things throught his life
July 28, 2025
if audiobooks were so easy to use when I was trying to get through school, I'd have enjoyed it. This is a great bit of history every American show search out and try to understand
October 28, 2025
While reading this along side Chernow’s Alexander Hamilton, I found it to be a helpful, simplified presentation. By contrast to the 738 pages, this one was 187 pages.
January 14, 2026
Easy to read and informative.
December 18, 2023
I liked this book but I found that it didn’t have all of the facts that the broadway Alexander Hamilton had in it but overall I think it was well written and I found out facts about his life I did not know from the Broadway.
July 20, 2018
This book put me to sleep every time I picked it up. I wanted to like it. The subject matter was interesting but the writing style did not keep me engaged.
October 1, 2023
A great introduction to the impact that Alexander Hamilton had on the formation of the United States, the US banking system, the US Constitution and so much more. A pivotal figure in US History who we often don’t hear much about—oh, except that Lin Manuel Miranda brilliant musical!
March 27, 2019
Alexander Hamilton: The Making Of America is definitely a book I didn't see myself reading and actually enjoying given that it is in fact a non fiction book, as all biographies are, and non fiction hasn't ever been my favorite. I was always interested in Alexander Hamilton because I knew he was an immigrant who helped forge our country. After reading this book, I found out many things I didn't know before about Hamilton and actually found myself relating to him in many ways. I am very glad I read this book and I would recommend it to anyone interested in government and politics.
October 14, 2019
Alexander Hamilton by Teri Kanefield (The Making of America, #1), 203 pages. Abrams Books, 2017. $17. Content: Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
BUYING ADVISORY: MS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
This book tells a little about the life of Alexander Hamilton, starting with his childhood and then moving through his drive to get an education. Hamilton was brilliant and made a huge impact on our government, putting into place a federal bank and establishing a stable economy in which the United States depended on to succeed as a new nation. Hamilton was one of the founding fathers and this book covers some of the events and relationships while our country was developing.
I enjoyed this short and succinct biography on Hamilton. I feel like teenagers today know more about Hamilton than the other founding fathers, but this book does a good job concentrating on his contributions to our government. Not everything is included in this book, leaving out some of the more intriguing parts of Hamilton’s story, but it’s a good start.
Reviewer, C. Peterson
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
BUYING ADVISORY: MS – ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
This book tells a little about the life of Alexander Hamilton, starting with his childhood and then moving through his drive to get an education. Hamilton was brilliant and made a huge impact on our government, putting into place a federal bank and establishing a stable economy in which the United States depended on to succeed as a new nation. Hamilton was one of the founding fathers and this book covers some of the events and relationships while our country was developing.
I enjoyed this short and succinct biography on Hamilton. I feel like teenagers today know more about Hamilton than the other founding fathers, but this book does a good job concentrating on his contributions to our government. Not everything is included in this book, leaving out some of the more intriguing parts of Hamilton’s story, but it’s a good start.
Reviewer, C. Peterson
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2019...
November 15, 2020
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I thought this biography for kids of Alexander Hamilton was good. Sometimes the writing wasn't engaging, but when discussing how to set up the treasury department, how engaging can you be? I also liked the fact that the author started off with the duel as a way to grab the reader's interest. The author does a good job of showing Hamilton's genius, yet also shows his flaws, too.
My favorite parts, though, had to be the depiction of Thomas Jefferson. Finally, a children's book that doesn't paint Jefferson as some sort of demi god. The author showed TJ's brilliance and remarked what an accomplished statesman he was, but you also got the duplicitousness, backstabbing and hypocritical part of him, too. Extra star just for that alone.
I thought this biography for kids of Alexander Hamilton was good. Sometimes the writing wasn't engaging, but when discussing how to set up the treasury department, how engaging can you be? I also liked the fact that the author started off with the duel as a way to grab the reader's interest. The author does a good job of showing Hamilton's genius, yet also shows his flaws, too.
My favorite parts, though, had to be the depiction of Thomas Jefferson. Finally, a children's book that doesn't paint Jefferson as some sort of demi god. The author showed TJ's brilliance and remarked what an accomplished statesman he was, but you also got the duplicitousness, backstabbing and hypocritical part of him, too. Extra star just for that alone.
October 25, 2019
I like how the book starts off with Alexander Hamilton's duel with Aaron Burr. Most biographies are very boring and I want to find a book about sci-fi, but this one really had a good hook and made me stay to find out what happens. The book also gets to the point when it talks about things in Hamilton's life. The book is also really good at telling a story and also not giving unnecessary information. Another reason this book is so good, is that it is historically accurate so you get the correct information instead of false information. I would recommend this book to anyone in middle school or for anyone who wants to learn more about Alexander Hamilton.
July 9, 2020
This young adult biography is approximately 200 pages and includes a birth-to-death account of the life of this extraordinary founding father. It covers many important topics, such as mercantilism, checks and balances, tariffs, and, of course, the Federalist papers and the Constitution. It’s filled with drawings, paintings and portraits, as well as clearly labeled title pages with Alexander Hamilton quotes beneath.
It is interesting to revisit the struggles it took to form our country.
It is interesting to revisit the struggles it took to form our country.
July 29, 2017
Interesting subject matter but the writing did not engage me.
March 4, 2017
Richie’s Picks: ALEXANDER HAMILTON: THE MAKING OF AMERICA by Teri Kanefield, Amulet, March 2017, 176p., ISBN: 978-1-4197-2578-4
“Sing a song of America
Once she was a young girl with her heart on fire
Born in the dust of the magic of history
It all goes on yeah the dream goes on”
-- Paul Kantner and Marty Balin (1986)
“During Alexander Hamilton’s lifetime, he was not seen as a visionary or an idealist--Thomas Jefferson, with his pining for an idyllic pastoral America, his penchant for revolutions, and his belief that it was possible to live in a society without taxes, was viewed as the man with the utopian vision. Hamilton was thought of as the practical statesman with a ten-point plan for everything. Thomas Jefferson was often viewed as a humanist and liberal who valued individual liberty above all, while Hamilton was often portrayed as a backward-leaning reactionary who placed law and order above individual freedom, who longed to return to a monarchy, and who embraced the evils of European industry and banking.
“But Jefferson, unlike Hamilton, could not imagine blacks and whites living side by side as equals. While Jefferson would have been happy for America to remain a nation of farmers who exchanged raw products for finished goods, Hamilton understood that an economy dependent on others would mean remaining a colony in all but name. Jefferson wanted nothing to do with banks, commerce, industry, or global leadership. Today we can see Hamilton as the farsighted statesman who imagined a capitalistic, multiracial country that would someday belong among the wealthiest and most advanced nations.”
--from the final chapter, “Legacy”
I love America. I suppose that I must have been well-indoctrinated as a child, for despite all that is wanting about our country--and there is so much--I still feel fortunate to have been born and raised here.
What is greatest about this nation that’s currently governed by lying scoundrels is the genius of the U.S. Constitution. This durable document was hammered out in the days before electricity generation, cars, phones, planes, recorded music and images, TV, computers, and millions of other innovations and developments that the Founding Fathers could never have imagined. More than anyone, Alexander Hamilton was the father of this innovative governing document and, thereby, the real father of our country.
Teri Kanefield’s ALEXANDER HAMILTON: THE MAKING OF AMERICA is a well-researched and moving biography of the Founding Father who has never gotten his fair share of coverage. In reading about someone who died 213 years ago, it’s strange to feel a sense of loss. But that’s what I felt, quite deeply, as I reached the final chapter and read about Hamilton’s funeral, which followed his death in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr.
It’s a powerful revelation to learn that many of the same issues that confront us in today’s America were front-and-center in our nation’s infancy. In what situations is a strong central government imperative, and when should the states act as they choose? By what formula should the populace and businesses be taxed to pay for the common good and common defense? Where does one’s personal freedom interfere with the personal freedoms of others?
And a sidebar about demagoguery rang a bit too true for me.
“Plato believed, essentially, that the problem with democracy was that anyone able to con a large enough group of people could become the ruler, a situation that encouraged and rewarded demagoguery.”
ALEXANDER HAMILTON: THE MAKING OF AMERICA is an exceptional story about the birth of the American nation. It includes fascinating and important details about the workings of the economy that are rarely encountered in history books for young people. It’s also the story of a boy born into difficult situation who worked and studied his way to become George Washington’s right-hand man and the brains behind our amazing Constitution. Because Alexander Hamilton came from extremely precarious circumstances, we root for his success and marvel at our fortune that he turned personal setbacks into positives.
Young readers will join me in enjoying the fact that everything great that Alexander Hamilton succeeded in doing was built on a letter that he crafted and published at age sixteen. I appreciate how well Kanefield succeeds in drawing Hamilton as a damaged, very human man who, despite his flaws, positively influenced the lives of all of us who arrived in America long after he was gone.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
“Sing a song of America
Once she was a young girl with her heart on fire
Born in the dust of the magic of history
It all goes on yeah the dream goes on”
-- Paul Kantner and Marty Balin (1986)
“During Alexander Hamilton’s lifetime, he was not seen as a visionary or an idealist--Thomas Jefferson, with his pining for an idyllic pastoral America, his penchant for revolutions, and his belief that it was possible to live in a society without taxes, was viewed as the man with the utopian vision. Hamilton was thought of as the practical statesman with a ten-point plan for everything. Thomas Jefferson was often viewed as a humanist and liberal who valued individual liberty above all, while Hamilton was often portrayed as a backward-leaning reactionary who placed law and order above individual freedom, who longed to return to a monarchy, and who embraced the evils of European industry and banking.
“But Jefferson, unlike Hamilton, could not imagine blacks and whites living side by side as equals. While Jefferson would have been happy for America to remain a nation of farmers who exchanged raw products for finished goods, Hamilton understood that an economy dependent on others would mean remaining a colony in all but name. Jefferson wanted nothing to do with banks, commerce, industry, or global leadership. Today we can see Hamilton as the farsighted statesman who imagined a capitalistic, multiracial country that would someday belong among the wealthiest and most advanced nations.”
--from the final chapter, “Legacy”
I love America. I suppose that I must have been well-indoctrinated as a child, for despite all that is wanting about our country--and there is so much--I still feel fortunate to have been born and raised here.
What is greatest about this nation that’s currently governed by lying scoundrels is the genius of the U.S. Constitution. This durable document was hammered out in the days before electricity generation, cars, phones, planes, recorded music and images, TV, computers, and millions of other innovations and developments that the Founding Fathers could never have imagined. More than anyone, Alexander Hamilton was the father of this innovative governing document and, thereby, the real father of our country.
Teri Kanefield’s ALEXANDER HAMILTON: THE MAKING OF AMERICA is a well-researched and moving biography of the Founding Father who has never gotten his fair share of coverage. In reading about someone who died 213 years ago, it’s strange to feel a sense of loss. But that’s what I felt, quite deeply, as I reached the final chapter and read about Hamilton’s funeral, which followed his death in a duel with Vice President Aaron Burr.
It’s a powerful revelation to learn that many of the same issues that confront us in today’s America were front-and-center in our nation’s infancy. In what situations is a strong central government imperative, and when should the states act as they choose? By what formula should the populace and businesses be taxed to pay for the common good and common defense? Where does one’s personal freedom interfere with the personal freedoms of others?
And a sidebar about demagoguery rang a bit too true for me.
“Plato believed, essentially, that the problem with democracy was that anyone able to con a large enough group of people could become the ruler, a situation that encouraged and rewarded demagoguery.”
ALEXANDER HAMILTON: THE MAKING OF AMERICA is an exceptional story about the birth of the American nation. It includes fascinating and important details about the workings of the economy that are rarely encountered in history books for young people. It’s also the story of a boy born into difficult situation who worked and studied his way to become George Washington’s right-hand man and the brains behind our amazing Constitution. Because Alexander Hamilton came from extremely precarious circumstances, we root for his success and marvel at our fortune that he turned personal setbacks into positives.
Young readers will join me in enjoying the fact that everything great that Alexander Hamilton succeeded in doing was built on a letter that he crafted and published at age sixteen. I appreciate how well Kanefield succeeds in drawing Hamilton as a damaged, very human man who, despite his flaws, positively influenced the lives of all of us who arrived in America long after he was gone.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
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richiepartington@gmail.com
November 5, 2018
How Alexander Hamilton beat the odds in framing checks and balances into the US constitution:
This is such a readable and incisive account of one of the key founders of the Constitution of the United States, Alexander Hamilton. Writer and lawyer Teri Kanefield has done a great service in creating it!
An interesting and easy-to-read account of Hamilton’s amazing life and the circumstances of diverse political interests coming together to create the United States from separate, competing states.
Alexander Hamilton played a key role.
Without his farsighted understanding and cogent advocacy, the basic framework for the modern United States may not have come together. Hamilton was both a visionary, and a practical man. He communicated extensively to educate and influence public opinion towards what he could see would create the basis for a prosperous, modern, stable nation.
Hamilton was also a man of action, working tirelessly to create the practical institutions of a new government, such as a Treasury with the ability to levy taxes and to lend money.
Interestingly, many of the dynamics of the time of founding the US are very much still active today. The divisions around creating a strong government with effective checks and balances and the views of Hamilton’s opponents still resonant in political divisions today.
The swelling of populism, for example, and the distrust of experts and the government were all strong factors way back in Hamilton’s time. These were factors which Hamilton often successfully confronted in his political writing and work.
For example, Hamilton, who was an immigrant to the US from the West Indies, successfully argued against constitutionally limiting the roles available for immigrants in the new government. He understood the great benefits immigrants could bring to their new country – from which everyone gained.
Do we see some of the issues still around today?
To obtain agreement he sought for compromises acceptable to enough people from diverse factions. In this case, Hamilton had to agree that the role of President would remain open only to US-born people. Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country.
In a very readable way, Teri Kanefield takes us through how Hamilton used his skill and expertise to create many key modern aspects of good government.
Read this book and you may understand a lot more about how the USA came together as a nation and what is going on in civic and political life today.
Good governance benefits a country and its people. Teri Kanefield’s book highlights Alexander Hamilton’s exceptional skills and impact in creating the powerful positive framework of the Constitution which underpins USA today.
This is such a readable and incisive account of one of the key founders of the Constitution of the United States, Alexander Hamilton. Writer and lawyer Teri Kanefield has done a great service in creating it!
An interesting and easy-to-read account of Hamilton’s amazing life and the circumstances of diverse political interests coming together to create the United States from separate, competing states.
Alexander Hamilton played a key role.
Without his farsighted understanding and cogent advocacy, the basic framework for the modern United States may not have come together. Hamilton was both a visionary, and a practical man. He communicated extensively to educate and influence public opinion towards what he could see would create the basis for a prosperous, modern, stable nation.
Hamilton was also a man of action, working tirelessly to create the practical institutions of a new government, such as a Treasury with the ability to levy taxes and to lend money.
Interestingly, many of the dynamics of the time of founding the US are very much still active today. The divisions around creating a strong government with effective checks and balances and the views of Hamilton’s opponents still resonant in political divisions today.
The swelling of populism, for example, and the distrust of experts and the government were all strong factors way back in Hamilton’s time. These were factors which Hamilton often successfully confronted in his political writing and work.
For example, Hamilton, who was an immigrant to the US from the West Indies, successfully argued against constitutionally limiting the roles available for immigrants in the new government. He understood the great benefits immigrants could bring to their new country – from which everyone gained.
Do we see some of the issues still around today?
To obtain agreement he sought for compromises acceptable to enough people from diverse factions. In this case, Hamilton had to agree that the role of President would remain open only to US-born people. Other roles were available to immigrants as well as those born in the country.
In a very readable way, Teri Kanefield takes us through how Hamilton used his skill and expertise to create many key modern aspects of good government.
Read this book and you may understand a lot more about how the USA came together as a nation and what is going on in civic and political life today.
Good governance benefits a country and its people. Teri Kanefield’s book highlights Alexander Hamilton’s exceptional skills and impact in creating the powerful positive framework of the Constitution which underpins USA today.
February 7, 2025
Alexander Hamilton and the Making of America is a compelling biography that offers an insightful look into one of the most influential Founding Fathers of the United States. The book delves into Hamilton's early life, his rise to political prominence, and his contributions to shaping the American financial system and government structure.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is its detailed account of Hamilton’s early struggles. Born out of wedlock in the Caribbean and orphaned at a young age, Hamilton’s journey to becoming a key architect of the American republic is nothing short of extraordinary. The author does a commendable job of illustrating how Hamilton’s intelligence, ambition, and sheer perseverance propelled him to the forefront of American politics.
The book also provides an in-depth analysis of Hamilton’s role in the Revolutionary War, his work as Washington’s aide-de-camp, and his instrumental role in drafting the Federalist Papers. His vision for a strong central government and a national banking system laid the foundation for modern American governance. However, the book does not shy away from discussing his controversies, including his political rivalries, particularly with Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr, which ultimately led to his tragic death in a duel.
What makes this book particularly engaging is its balanced portrayal of Hamilton. It neither glorifies him nor diminishes his contributions but instead presents a well-rounded perspective that acknowledges his flaws while highlighting his remarkable achievements. The writing is accessible yet thorough, making it a great read for both history enthusiasts and those new to Hamilton’s story.
This book is a valuable read for anyone interested in constitutionalism and federalism. It is highly accessible and engaging. As someone who was not well-versed in American history, I found it clarified many of my anecdotal doubts about American politics, slavery, racism, and party politics.
Overall, Alexander Hamilton and the Making of America is a fascinating read that brings to life the complexities of one of America's most brilliant yet polarizing figures. It is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, politics, or leadership.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is its detailed account of Hamilton’s early struggles. Born out of wedlock in the Caribbean and orphaned at a young age, Hamilton’s journey to becoming a key architect of the American republic is nothing short of extraordinary. The author does a commendable job of illustrating how Hamilton’s intelligence, ambition, and sheer perseverance propelled him to the forefront of American politics.
The book also provides an in-depth analysis of Hamilton’s role in the Revolutionary War, his work as Washington’s aide-de-camp, and his instrumental role in drafting the Federalist Papers. His vision for a strong central government and a national banking system laid the foundation for modern American governance. However, the book does not shy away from discussing his controversies, including his political rivalries, particularly with Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr, which ultimately led to his tragic death in a duel.
What makes this book particularly engaging is its balanced portrayal of Hamilton. It neither glorifies him nor diminishes his contributions but instead presents a well-rounded perspective that acknowledges his flaws while highlighting his remarkable achievements. The writing is accessible yet thorough, making it a great read for both history enthusiasts and those new to Hamilton’s story.
This book is a valuable read for anyone interested in constitutionalism and federalism. It is highly accessible and engaging. As someone who was not well-versed in American history, I found it clarified many of my anecdotal doubts about American politics, slavery, racism, and party politics.
Overall, Alexander Hamilton and the Making of America is a fascinating read that brings to life the complexities of one of America's most brilliant yet polarizing figures. It is a must-read for anyone interested in American history, politics, or leadership.
October 24, 2018
“we are living in Hamilton’s America.” Hamilton fought for a central bank, he fought for a centralized federal government, he fought for the United States. Alexander Hamilton: The Making of America, a biography written by Tori Kanefield, is a book centered around none other than Alexander Hamilton. It starts off in 1804 in the United States of America but quickly jumps over to 1755 in the British West Indies where Alexander Hamilton was born. “His status as a child born outside of marriage – declared illegitimate… became a lifelong source of embarrassment.” Jump forward to 1774 and a young Hamilton, now in New York City, has written his first political treatise. Throughout most of the war between the Patriots and the Loyalist from 1775 to 1783, George Washington would not let Alex fight, something he longed for. It wasn’t until the Battle of Yorktown that he got the glory that he so desired. After the war, he went on to do private law work but would later except the position of Secretary of the Treasury where he would set up a strong trade and a central bank. Alexander Hamilton was also a trusted aid whom George Washington often turned to.
Alexander Hamilton was a person that didn’t seem to have much to offer considering that he was an illegitimate child, orphan, poor, and an immigrant. However, he played an influential part in creating the very government that stands here today. He faced many adversities, yet, he always excelled in what he did and proved those that doubted him wrong. For me, his story is an inspiration because no matter what, we can do what we set our minds to. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the founding of our country or simply looking to be inspired.
Alexander Hamilton was a person that didn’t seem to have much to offer considering that he was an illegitimate child, orphan, poor, and an immigrant. However, he played an influential part in creating the very government that stands here today. He faced many adversities, yet, he always excelled in what he did and proved those that doubted him wrong. For me, his story is an inspiration because no matter what, we can do what we set our minds to. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the founding of our country or simply looking to be inspired.
July 24, 2019
I think this should be a required read for anyone who wants to see the musical. I admit I knew very little about Hamilton prior to starting this book but became quickly fascinated by this icon of a man.
Technically speaking I think this would pose to be a difficult read for a 6th grader. However, anyone with enough interest and patience should do fine. The trouble being I’m not sure most students will have enough background knowledge to be able to really make the right connections for comprehension.
There are tons of names and places that can be difficult to keep track of. I listened to the audio and immediately wished I was reading the print. The production was great but I wanted the ability to go back and reread, as I think many students will need to at times.
A great book that brings to light the making of America in an exciting and narrative way. While you are reading you suddenly are amazed at the idea of a nation who has just won its freedom and is faced with building a nation. Fascinating stuff! How do you start from scratch and pull 13 colonies together, or do you? So many thoughtful big questions!
Hunker down, settle in and turn your brain on high because you will need it. Totally worth it.
Must read before seeing the musical, I am
Convinced.
Technically speaking I think this would pose to be a difficult read for a 6th grader. However, anyone with enough interest and patience should do fine. The trouble being I’m not sure most students will have enough background knowledge to be able to really make the right connections for comprehension.
There are tons of names and places that can be difficult to keep track of. I listened to the audio and immediately wished I was reading the print. The production was great but I wanted the ability to go back and reread, as I think many students will need to at times.
A great book that brings to light the making of America in an exciting and narrative way. While you are reading you suddenly are amazed at the idea of a nation who has just won its freedom and is faced with building a nation. Fascinating stuff! How do you start from scratch and pull 13 colonies together, or do you? So many thoughtful big questions!
Hunker down, settle in and turn your brain on high because you will need it. Totally worth it.
Must read before seeing the musical, I am
Convinced.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews