We all know the story of scrappy Alexander Hamilton and his rise in American politics–but how much do we know about his workmate, inspiration, and stabilizing force, Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton?

Margaret McNamara assumed the voice of Elizabeth Hamilton, wife of first Secretary of Treasury, Alexander Hamilton, and imagined a letter to her great-granddaughter and detailing her life over the years. Eliza was born on a hot August day in 1757 to the most prominent parents of New York, Phillip Schuyler, and Catherine Van Rensselaer Schuyler. While Eliza’s parents were slave owners, Eliza’s mother did not believe in treating the housekeepers poorly as she taught her children it was a sin to do so, despite her father treating the slaves inadequately. When their father died, the Schuyler’s set their slaves free. As far as her husband history, Alexander did not come from such fortune. In fact, he was exiled out of his island home when he was just fourteen years of age. Eliza was a kind-hearted individual and wanted to house Alexander with the warmth of her love and provide a sense of family for him. They were married shortly after their courtship and had eight children together. Although many people talk about the great things that Alexander accomplished, the letter focused more on Eliza’s accomplishments after her husband’s death. After Alexander’s death, she had many debts to take care of, but she still was able to donate land and property to build a home for children. My favorite quotes from this book are “I did not have to live in splendor when so many around me were wanting.” This quote speaks to me because Eliza came from such a prestigious life yet she was so humble. ( )