The 'Hamilton' Musical May Be Why Alexander Hamilton Stayed On The $10 Bill
The US Department of the Treasury announced today Harriet Tubman will replace Andrew Jackson on the $20 bill, a victory for everyone who opposes slavery and genocide.
Meanwhile, Founding Father Alexander Hamilton gets to keep his spot on the $10 bill, despite rumors earlier this year he would be replaced by a woman.
Fans of the Broadway musical "Hamilton" are claiming Lin-Manuel Miranda and co. influenced this decision, and it turns out they're probably right. Last month, Lin-Manuel, creator and star of the musical, met with US Treasury Secretary Jacob J. Lew, The New York Times reports.
Apparently, the secretary was convinced by Lin-Manuel of Hamilton's influence on American history.
A spokesperson for the secretary told The New York Times,
The Secretary thanked Miranda for the ingenious way in which he has been able to tell Hamilton's story and ignite a renewed interest in one of our nation's founding fathers. Secretary Lew also reiterated his commitment to continue to honor Alexander Hamilton on the 10 dollar bill.
I mean, he did handle our financial situation so expertly, much of his system is still in place today.
So, I think this is proof nerds can do anything. I mean, a Broadway musical basically just influenced a government decision. That's pretty badass.
But, would you really expect anything less from Alexander Hamilton? The man is non-stop.
Way to get the job done, Lin!
Citations: Hamilton May Stay on the $10 Bill, Thanks to Help From Broadway (The New York Times)