The song recounts a
duel which occurred between
John Laurens and
Charles Lee. The duel took place as a result of disparaging remarks made by Lee about
George Washington following Lee's dismissal from the role of
Major General in the
Continental Army in the wake of Lee's failure at the
Battle of Monmouth. The lyrics describe the typical process of a duel during the era in a manner modelled on the
Ten Commandments. Laurens demands satisfaction from Lee. After Lee refuses, Laurens challenges him to a duel, and the two men recruit their respective seconds,
Alexander Hamilton and
Aaron Burr, the relationship between whom is a central theme in the show. Before the duel begins, Hamilton and Burr make a final attempt to negotiate a resolution, in which Burr speaks out against the practice, whereas Hamilton insists that Lee answer for his remarks and conduct at Monmouth. The duel results in Laurens non-fatally shooting Lee in the side after Hamilton encourages him to "not throw away his shot", a motif in the show and expression of the time.
Ten Duel Commandments • Demand satisfaction. No dueling is necessary if they apologize. • If they do not apologize, choose someone to act as your second, your lieutenant. • Have your seconds negotiate a resolution, or the location and date for the duel. • If a duel is settled, choose your weapons and have a doctor present. • Duel before dawn. • Write a note for your
next of kin. • Confess your sins. • Once again, have your seconds attempt to negotiate peace. • Aim no higher than the dueler's eye. • Count ten paces, then fire.
Historical differences In the song, Aaron Burr serves as Lee's second, while in real life that role was filled by major Evan Edwards. ==Analysis==