Gore Vidal's "Burr": A Biography of Aaron Burr

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In summary, the conversation discusses a biography of Arron Burr and its recommendation for those interested in the life and politics of the founding fathers. It reveals surprising facts such as the slaughter of thousands of slaves in the south in the 1790s and talk of succession in the New England states. It also mentions the licentious behavior of many founding fathers and the belief that George Washington was a poor general. The conversation concludes with a suggestion to read a biography of Alexander Hamilton for another perspective and the role of press in causing conflict between Burr and Hamilton.
  • #1
Integral
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I am just about finished with this book a biography of Arron Burr. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in the life and politics of our founding fathers.

I have leaned much that is very surprising. Like:
1. In the 1790s in the wake of the French Revolution and following a successful slave revolt in Haiti, perhaps 1000's of slaves in the south were simply slaughtered in fear of a similar revolt.

2. There was talk of succession of the New England states in the early 1800s.

3. Many of the founding fathers were licentious drunks, exceptions would be G. Washington and J. Madison.

4. Burr felt that Washington had a knack for losing battles. Over all he was a poor General, but was able to hold things together long enough for the French to save our backsides.

Once again this is a very good read for anyone interested in the men and women of the Revolution era.
 
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  • #2
Integral said:
. Burr felt that Washington had a knack for losing battles. Over all he was a poor General, but was able to hold things together long enough for the French to save our backsides.

Yes. Few Americans realize that the founding father was, at best, a mediocre general in terms of tactics. However, he deserves credit for keeping the army together and "toughing out" the hard times to gain (with the necessary help of France) a final victory at Yorktown, Va (1781). First he lost New York City, then he lost Philadelphia and nearly lost his army at Valley Forge. After a victory at Monmouth, NJ (1778), he largely avoided combat while the British invaded the southern colonies. Washington wasn't present for the war's most critical battle at Saratoga, NY (1777). That key American victory belongs either to Benedict Arnold or Horatio Gates (historians still argue about this).

http://sc94.ameslab.gov/TOUR/gwash.html see American Revolution
 
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  • #3
you might try Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton for another view
 
  • #4
BWV said:
you might try Ron Chernow's biography of Alexander Hamilton for another view


Thanks for the suggestion, I will do that.

Seems that much of the problem between Burr and Hamilton was due to the vitriol in the press of the day. The stuff they printed make the Star and Enquirer read like the Sunday comics.
 

Related to Gore Vidal's "Burr": A Biography of Aaron Burr

1. Who is the author of "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr"?

The author of "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" is Gore Vidal. Vidal was an American author, playwright, and political activist. He was known for his historical fiction and essays that often reflected his political views.

2. What is the book "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" about?

"Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" is a historical novel that explores the life of Aaron Burr, the third Vice President of the United States. The book delves into Burr's controversial political career, his relationship with Alexander Hamilton, and the infamous duel that ended Hamilton's life.

3. Is "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" historically accurate?

While "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" is a work of fiction, it is heavily based on historical events and characters. Vidal conducted extensive research on Burr and his contemporaries to ensure the accuracy of the novel. However, some events and dialogue have been fictionalized for dramatic effect.

4. What makes "Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" unique compared to other biographies?

"Burr: A Biography of Aaron Burr" stands out from other biographies because it is written in a novelistic style. Vidal incorporates elements of fiction, such as dialogue and inner thoughts, to bring the characters and events to life. This approach allows readers to engage with the story and gain a deeper understanding of Burr's motivations and actions.

5. Why did Gore Vidal choose to write about Aaron Burr?

Gore Vidal was fascinated by Aaron Burr and his role in American history. He saw Burr as a complex and misunderstood figure and wanted to explore his character in depth. Vidal also believed that Burr's story was relevant to contemporary politics and wanted to draw parallels between the past and present.

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