The question of who shot first between Hamilton and Burr has been a subject of debate and speculation for many years. While there are differing accounts and theories, it is generally accepted that Hamilton shot first and missed his target, followed by Burr’s fatal shot.
One theory, mentioned in a 1976 Smithsonian magazine article, suggests that Hamilton’s pistol had a hair trigger, which allowed him to fire the first shot. A hair trigger is a mechanism that reduces the amount of pressure needed to pull the trigger, resulting in a quicker and more sensitive response. This theory implies that Hamilton may have had an advantage in getting off the first shot due to the hair trigger on his pistol.
However, it is important to note that Burr himself claimed in his autobiography that he supplied the pistols used in the duel, not Hamilton. This raises questions about the accuracy of the hair trigger theory and adds another layer of uncertainty to the sequence of events.
The conflicting accounts and lack of concrete evidence make it difficult to determine with absolute certainty who shot first. Historical records and eyewitness testimonies from the time of the duel provide some insights, but they often differ in their details and interpretations.
It is worth noting that duels were highly regulated affairs, governed by a strict code of honor. The participants were expected to follow specific rules and protocols, which included standing at a predetermined distance from each other before firing. This distance was typically around ten paces, ensuring a fair and controlled contest.
Given the intensity and pressure of the situation, it is possible that the exact sequence of shots may have been difficult to ascertain, especially for witnesses who were present on the field. Emotions, adrenaline, and the chaotic nature of the duel could have influenced people’s perceptions and recollections.
While the prevailing belief is that Hamilton shot first and missed, followed by Burr’s successful shot, the question of who shot first remains somewhat ambiguous. The hair trigger theory suggests an advantage for Hamilton, but Burr’s claim that he supplied the pistols adds another layer of uncertainty. Ultimately, due to conflicting accounts and the passage of time, it is challenging to definitively determine the exact sequence of events in the Hamilton-Burr duel.