Aaron Burr (1756–1836) was an American politician, lawyer, and soldier, best known for his role as the third Vice President of the United States under Thomas Jefferson and for his infamous duel with Alexander Hamilton. Born on February 6, 1756, in Newark, New Jersey, Burr was raised in a prominent family and attended Princeton University. He served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War and later studied law.

Burr’s political career began in the New York State Assembly and he became a U.S. Senator in 1791. His vice presidency from 1801 to 1805 was marked by political conflict, particularly with Jefferson. In 1804, he killed Hamilton in a duel, which tarnished his reputation and led to his political decline.

Aaron Burr Quotes

“Never do today what you can put off till tomorrow. Delay may give clearer light as to what is best to be done.”
— Aaron Burr

“I live my life as I deem appropriate and fitting; I offer no apologies, no explanations.”
— Aaron Burr

“Error often is to be preferred to indecision.”
— Aaron Burr

“Never do today what you can do tomorrow, because something may occur to make you regret your premature action.”
— Aaron Burr

“Law is whatever is boldly asserted and plausibly maintained.”
— Aaron Burr

“The rule of my life is to make business a pleasure, and pleasure my business.”
— Aaron Burr