George Clinton: Master Builder of the Empire State

Although overshadowed during the same period of history by luminaries such as Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton, the less famous George Clinton played a major role in state and national politics. By gaining the respect and affection of his fellow compatriots, Clinton became New York’s first governor. He served for twenty-one years before twice being elected vice president of the United States. Like his close friend George Washington, Clinton fought in the French and Indian War and then worked as a surveyor before becoming active in gaining the colonies’ independence from England. Commissioned as a general in the Continental army as well as serving as New York’s militia general, Clinton was responsible for controlling the Hudson River highlands, which was the key to preventing an English military victory.

After the war, Washington and Clinton toured the Mohawk River area, where together they purchased large tracts of land. Their close relationship continued through their lifetimes despite Clinton’s stance as a prominent Anti-Federalist and champion of states’ rights.

This concise biography, enriched with an array of illustrations, underscores the question posed by James B. Bell in his foreword: What would be the chronicle of American history without George Clinton’s remarkable vision and leadership?