Alexander Hamilton

The song "Alexander Hamilton" is the opening number of the hit Broadway musical "Hamilton: An American Musical," which tells the story of one of America's Founding Fathers, Alexander Hamilton. The musical was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, who also originated the title role. The song sets the stage for Hamilton's story, detailing his early life and the adversities he overcame to become a key figure in American history.

The lyrics, delivered by various characters who played significant roles in Hamilton's life, describe his challenging beginnings as an orphan born out of wedlock, his relentless pursuit of education and self-improvement, and his arrival in New York City, where he would eventually make his mark. The song is a powerful narrative of Hamilton's resilience, intelligence, and ambition. It emphasizes how he rose from poverty and obscurity through sheer determination and hard work, ultimately shaping the foundation of the United States.

The recurring theme of the song is the idea of legacy and how one's name and actions can resonate through history. The ensemble repeatedly asks, "What's your name, man?" highlighting the importance of making a name for oneself. The song also touches on the concept of the American Dream, as Hamilton is portrayed as the quintessential self-made man who seizes his opportunities in a new land. The refrain "just you wait" suggests that Hamilton's potential is yet to be fully realized, foreshadowing his significant contributions to come.