Alexander Hamilton

Served as George Washington's aide de camp during the Revolutionary War. As Secretary of the Treasury, Hamilton was President Washington's closest political and military advisor. Hamilton advocated the establishment of a strong central government, a national bank and the formation of an American army. His frequent clashes with Thomas Jefferson over the most fundamental political questions led to the establishment of the two-party system in American politics. His vitriolic attack on Adams during the 1800 election may have cost Adams the presidency.