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Hamilton, Alexander (1755-1804) [Trial notes in a case involving nonpayment of an indemnity for a ship seized by the French]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02377 Author/Creator: Hamilton, Alexander (1755-1804) Place Written: New York, New York Type: Autograph manuscript Date: circa 1797-1800 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 20.7 x 32.6 cm.

Summary of Content: Written by Alexander Hamilton as counsel to the ship master, answering the underwriter's attempt to avoid payment. An armed American ship carrying unspecified contraband was seized by the French, and the ship's Master attempted to take back the vessel. Argues that the ship was legally armed "with intent to resist privateers" and that the Master's attempt to retake the ship was legal. Uses testimony to show the Mate and crew supported the Master and did not act belligerently against the French boarding party. Docket title reads: Autograph brief of Genl Hamilton.

Background Information: Signer of the U.S. Constitution.

People: Hamilton, Alexander, 1757-1804

Historical Era: The New Nation, 1783-1815

Subjects: LawMaritimePrivateeringFranceQuasi-warNavyGlobal History and US Foreign PolicyGlobal History and US Foreign PolicyFinance

Sub Era: The Early Republic

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