Serving as the third vice president of the United States between 1801 and 1805, Aaron Burr remains a pivotal figure in American political history. A trained lawyer and military officer, he transitioned from the Continental Army to a career in law and national governance, eventually becoming embroiled in controversies that defined his long public life.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1756 in Newark, Burr descended from a lineage of educators and theologians. He attended Princeton University, graduating in 1772, and pursued further legal training at the Litchfield Law School. His upbringing was marked by the early loss of his parents, leading him to study under the guidance of his uncle and later his brother-in-law, Tapping Reeve.
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Burr enlisted in the Continental Army in 1775, reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He participated in the arduous expedition to Quebec under Benedict Arnold and served as an aide-de-camp to General Richard Montgomery. Later, under General Israel Putnam, he demonstrated tactical awareness during the retreat from Manhattan, though he notably failed to receive formal commendation from George Washington.
Political Career
Entering politics, Burr served as the Attorney General of New York from 1789 to 1791 and as a member of the New York State Assembly. His time in the United States Senate spanned 1791 to 1797. In the 1800 presidential election, an Electoral College tie led to his selection as vice president under Thomas Jefferson, a role in which he was largely sidelined.
Later Years and Legal Troubles
Post-vice presidency, Burr faced intense scrutiny for his involvement in a duel that killed Alexander Hamilton and for his suspected participation in a conspiracy to seize territory from the United States or the Spanish Empire. Although arrested and tried for treason in 1807, he was acquitted. He spent time in Europe before returning to New York City to practice law until his death in 1836.
Fast facts
- Born: 1756, Newark
- Died: 1836, Port Richmond
- Military Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
- Vice President of the United States: 1801-1805
- Education: Princeton University; Litchfield Law School
- Buried at: Princeton Cemetery
- Political Party: Democratic-Republican Party
- Career: Lawyer, Politician, Jurist
Questions readers ask
What official positions did Aaron Burr hold?
He served as Attorney General of New York, a member of the New York State Assembly, a United States senator, and Vice President of the United States.
Where is Aaron Burr buried?
He is buried at the Princeton Cemetery.
Achievements
- Vice President of the United States (1801–1805)
- Attorney General of New York (1789–1791)
- member of the New York State Assembly
- United States senator (1791–1793)
- Educated at Princeton University and Litchfield Law School
