by Joe Kelly, Pennsylvania Representative
I recently attended two Hamilton related activities at the National Constitutional Center in Philadelphia. Last night President and CEO of the NCC, Jeffrey Rosen, presided over a discussion of his new book “The Pursuit of Liberty; Hamilton vs. Jefferson”. It was a magical evening, with Dr. Rosen sharing with the 300 people in attendance the trials and tribulations of the Hamilton/Jefferson relationship and how it ignited a lasting battle over power in America. While the CEO of the NCC must always keep his non-partisan hat on, there were definitely some obvious hints dropped that he is a Hamiltonian at heart.
Afterwards, a book signing occurred (I was first in line). Dr. Rosen and I reminisced of our previous meeting, several years ago, with myself and Rand and the AHA Society assistance with the NCC Hamilton display. I was honored that Dr. Rosen asked for my contact information, as a representative of the AHA Society, for any future Hamilton projects. It was an amazing evening interacting with many Hamilton like-minded individuals.
Four nights earlier I was in attendance when Ron Chernow was awarded the Liberty Medal for his book “Hamilton”, and his contributions to the renewed interest younger generations have in history. Ron recollected the many stories of Hamilton’s life, and how they related to what is happening in today’s America. Afterwards I had the pleasure of talking with Ron, and thanking him for leading the way in the resurgence of the Hamilton legacy. He said to give a big hello to all the AHA Society followers out there.
