I have a new article at Smithsonian.com about Aaron Burr and his posse of North Jersey pals from Elizabeth, “The Original Jersey Boys.”  The four boyhood friends achieved much — heroes of the Revolution, three became senators, one was Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Burr was vice president. But they also failed greatly. …

I take the liberty of posting the entire, delightful review! AMERICAN EMPEROR [STARRED REVIEW!] Aaron Burr’s Challenge to Jefferson’s America Author: Stewart, David O. A fresh, vivid exploration of the exploits and trial of Aaron Burr (1756–1836), the most notorious figure of the early American republic. In 1800, Burr came within one electoral vote of…