The Burr and Hamilton duel is a major element of American history. It was a moment in history where two enemies fought against their anger. But many historians wonder whether Hamilton was able to avoid this duel. Many people would agree that this is something that would not become a problem if avoided. Many history classes today debate the question: "Were the consequences of the Burr versus Hamilton duel inevitable?" » Alexander was the leader of the Federalists and Secretary of State. Burr was a Democratic Republican and Vice President of the United States. They are both political enemies, but their hatred for each other went beyond politics. The duel started because of the tension between Hamilton and Burr. There are many reasons why the duel actually happened. For many years, Burr and Hamilton were enemies and it began when Burr defeated Philip Schuyler, Hamilton's father-in-law in a U.S. senatorial election in New York. Shortly after the election, Burr published a paper on Hamilton. The document “The Public Conduct and Character of John Adams, Esq., President of the United States” attacked Adam and his presidency. The document caused a split within the Federalist Party that could not be repaired. In exchange for the damage Burr did to the Federalist Party and its presidency, Hamilton persuaded members of the House of Representatives to vote for Jefferson instead of Burr. After losing the election, Burr believes that challenging Hamilton to a duel would be the only thing that could restore his honor. These disputes were certainly not new to Hamilton or Burr. Both have faced several conflicts. Burr has been involved in three previous disputes and Hamilton has participated in ten disputes. Although none of the disputes regarding either... middle of paper ... there is no chance that Burr would have decided to do anything under these conditions. Freeman said: “Very offended directors like Burr sometimes insisted on dueling; some terrible insults could only be dispelled with an extreme display of courage. Burr was very obsessed with dueling. He knew there was no one to regain his political power. Many historians also believe that Hamilton may have refused the duel. Because of his religion and his honor, he wanted to withdraw from the duel. They believe he was capable of it, but that's not entirely true. Like Burr, Hamilton knows that if he does not accept the duel, his political power will diminish. Even though he doesn't want to kill anyone, he makes the decision not to even run away. If Hamilton had renounced the duel, he would not have died so young and perhaps become powerful enough to become president..