Oct 16

Oct 16 Charles D. Cooper's Letter Starts a Duel

Charles D. Cooper was a physician in Albany, New York who had a letter intercepted and published.

Cooper’s words just so happen to lead to the nation’s most famous duel.

“I assert that Gen. Hamilton and Judge Kent have declared, in substance, that they looked upon Mr. Burr to be a dangerous man, and one who ought not to be trusted with the reins of government.”

-Charles D. Cooper

The 1804 Governor’s Race

During the first few years of the 19th century the New York Governor’s race was always close.

Either political party’s candidate could win.

It was in this situation that Vice President of the United States switched parties to run as the Federalist Candidate for the highest office in New York.

The fallout from this decision would lead to the most famous duel in American history.

Charles D. Cooper

Charles D. Cooper was a 40-something doctor from Albany who found himself at a political dinner.

As a member of the Federalist Party, Cooper attended an event discussing potential candidates for Governor of New York.

Then, Alexander Hamilton took the floor.

A Vice President Looking For Work

There had been a lot of chatter about nominating Aaron Burr for the office of Governor.

Burr was, at that very moment, Vice President of the United States. He was also a Democratic-Republican.

Unfortunately for Burr, he had a falling out with President Thomas Jefferson and had been replaced on the ticket with outgoing New York Governor George Clinton.

Burr figured…’If he’s taking my job, I might as well take his.’

The Letter

Alexander Hamilton’s speech warned Federalists about ‘a dangerous man’ who was switching parties simply to further his own ambition.

Afterward, Charles D. Cooper wrote to Hamilton’s father-in-law, Philip Schuyler. In the letter, Cooper discussed Hamilton’s speech and implied that he had said extremely disparaging things about Burr.

Shortly thereafter, The Albany Register got their hands on the letter and published it.

Fallout

Aaron Burr was extremely upset by what he read.

A divide already having come between he and his former friend, Burr exchanged a series of letters with Hamilton.

If Hamilton had simply apologized, Burr would have published it and all would be forgotten.

Hamilton refused and, thanks to a letter from the otherwise insignificant Charles D. Cooper, America’s most famous duel was scheduled.

Here are some articles about some of the Founders who were present for the Hamilton-Burr duel

David Hosack Hears Shots Fired

William P. Van Ness Helps Burr Receive Satisfaction

Nathaniel Pendleton Holds a Bloody Hamilton in His Arm

The Duel has been written about time and time again.

‘Founding Brothers’ donates a section to this topic. This is also, in my opinion, the best book for someone who is just learning about the American Founding for the first time.

If you’d like a copy you can get one through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).