Alexander Hamilton was an immigrant from the West Indies who rose from humble, orphaned beginnings to become a key Founding Father, serving as the first Secretary of the Treasury and a major author of the Federalist Papers. Born out of wedlock in Nevis around 1755 or 1757, his father abandoned the family and his mother died when he was a young teen. After working as a clerk and being educated by local benefactors, he moved to New York, joined the Continental Army, and quickly became a leader. Early life and education Birthplace: Born around 1755 or 1757 on the Caribbean island of Nevis. Parents: His father was James Hamilton, a Scottish trader, and his mother was Rachel Faucette Lavien, who was married to another man at the time, making Hamilton illegitimate. Orphaned: His father abandoned the family, and his mother died when he was about 12 years old. Early work: He worked as a clerk for a trading company, where his intelligence and abilities were noticed by local benefactors who sponsored his education in North America. Higher education: He arrived in New York in 1773 and attended King's College (now Columbia University). Revolutionary War and political career Military service: He joined the New York militia in 1775 and became a lieutenant colonel in the Continental Army, serving as George Washington's aide-de-camp. Constitution: He was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention and a leading advocate for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Federalist Papers: Along with James Madison and John Jay, he authored 51 of the 85 essays known as the Federalist Papers, which argued for the new Constitution. Secretary of the Treasury: He served as the first Secretary of the Treasury under George Washington, where he established the nation's financial system, including the first national bank. Personal life and death Marriage: He married Elizabeth Schuyler, the daughter of a prominent New York general, in 1780. Death: He was killed in a duel with his political rival, Aaron Burr, in 1804.