why did hamilton and burr duel

The duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr occurred due to a long- standing political rivalry and personal animosity that escalated over years. The immediate cause was disparaging remarks Hamilton allegedly made about Burr at a dinner, which Burr interpreted as a serious insult to his honor. Burr challenged Hamilton to a duel to defend his reputation, especially after losing the New York governor's race in 1804, in part due to Hamilton's opposition. Hamilton, despite personal and moral objections to dueling, accepted the challenge to preserve his own reputation and future political viability. The duel happened on July 11, 1804, in Weehawken, New Jersey, where Burr fatally shot Hamilton. This event ended Hamilton's life and Burr's political career as Burr was widely vilified afterward.