The man who killed Alexander Hamilton will probably never appear on U. S. currency. Aaron Burr’s early career showed great promise. Born in Princeton, New Jersey, he was the son of a president of Princeton College and the grandson of a famous clergyman. At age 16, Burr graduated from Princeton. His pursuit of further studies was interrupted by the American Revolution. Burr distinguished himself on the field and briefly joined General Washington’s staff. However, Burr’s relationship with Washington was never close or easy, and the young hero returned to the battlefield, eventually leading a regiment.

7

After he left the army, Burr began a hugely successful legal career in New York, often crossing paths with Alexander Hamilton in social and professional settings. He became active in state politics and was elected to the U. S. Senate. Burr’s relationship with Hamilton turned unfriendly as the men assumed leadership of opposing political parties in New York. In the disputed presidential election of 1800, Hamilton’s role in ensuring that Burr was elected vice president rather than president increased the antagonism between the two men.

8

Burr reached the peak of his political career as vice president. After that, he was alienated from his own party. Aware that he would not be nominated again, he unsuccessfully ran for governor of New York. Burr blamed Hamilton for his political troubles. In July 1804, the U. S. vice president fatally wounded his rival in a duel.

9

Burr’s misfortunes and misconduct did not end with the duel. He became involved in a plot to detach the Louisiana Territory from the United States and apparently to crown himself emperor. He was tried for treason in 1807 but acquitted. In disgrace, Burr fled to Europe for four years. He returned to New York to practice law and died in penniless obscurity at the age of 80.

Which detail in paragraph 7 MOST clearly contributes to the development of one of the central ideas of the passage?

A.
the growing hostility between Hamilton and Burr

B.
the success of Burr’s legal career

C.
Burr’s election to the U. S. Senate

D.
Burr’s interactions with Hamilton in various settings