A series of videos condensing the ideas on prominent figures in history into short segments. Some of the content here is elaborated upon in greater depth in my book, Compact of the Republic: The League of States and the Constitution.
Alexander Hamilton:
As one of America’s most notorious founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton has become a cultural icon as the star of a modern Broadway musical, even though he was highly divisive figure in his time. But what were the ideas that made him famous? In this video, I explain.
Best books on this topic:
-Ron Chernow, Alexander Hamilton (very sympathetic)
-Forrest McDonald, Alexander Hamilton (mostly sympathetic)
-Brion McClanahan, How Alexander Hamilton Screwed Up America (critical)
-Thomas DiLorenzo, Hamilton’s Curse (critical)
-Thomas Fleming, Duel: Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, and the Future of America
-Joseph Ellis, The Quartet: Orchestrating the Second American Revolution, 1783-1789
Thomas Jefferson:
In his first inaugural address, Thomas Jefferson articulated a vision of “peace, commerce, and honest friendship with all nations, entangling alliances with none.” But how did he think this would be best accomplished? In this video, I explain the Sage of Monticello’s most important political ideas.
Best books on this topic:
-Gordon Wood, Empire of Liberty
-Kevin Gutzman, Thomas Jefferson: Revolutionary
-R. B. Bernstein, Thomas Jefferson: The Revolution of Ideas
-Dumas Malone, Jefferson and His Time
Voltaire:
According to Voltaire, “those who can make you believe absurdities, can make you commit atrocities.” This cynical take on humanity made Voltaire one of the most polarizing figures of his day. Even still, he befriended some of the most powerful and influential people in the world. But what were the ideas for which he was most famous? In this video, I explain.
Best books on this topic:
-Voltaire, Candide
-Voltaire, Premium Collection (Over 60 Works)
-Ian Davison, Voltaire: A Life
-Roger Pearson, Voltaire Almighty