Before the Burr Conspiracy

Most people know nothing about Aaron Burr, or disparage him as a traitor obsessed with personal gain. In his own time, Burr was an influential and popular politician. Burr’s ability to attract support from the masses and diverse political factions led to political success. His Federalist opponents found him personally charming and charismatic, capable of pragmatic, bipartisan compromises. Although Burr killed Hamilton in a duel, mid-level politicians believed he could govern in the public interest. Burr’s political rivals, especially the Virginian leader James Monroe, resented him and sought to exclude him from politics. An astute, effective politician, Burr almost became president in the disputed election of 1800-1801. In 1807, Burr’s treason trial on unproven charges ended his political career and permanently stained his reputation. But many contemporaries viewed him favorably and even admired him. Arthur Scherr’s succinct, illuminating study recaptures this forgotten image of Aaron Burr in brilliant prose.