Robert Hamilton (economist) facts for kids

Robert Hamilton (born June 11, 1743, died July 14, 1829) was a very smart Scottish person. He was a mathematician, which means he studied numbers and shapes. He was also a political economist. This means he studied how countries manage their money and resources. Robert Hamilton helped start the Royal Society of Edinburgh. This is a famous group for scientists and thinkers in Scotland.

Robert Hamilton's Life Story

The grave of Prof Robert Hamilton, St Nicholas Churchyard, Aberdeen

Robert Hamilton was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on June 11, 1743. He was the eighth son in his family. His father, Gavin Hamilton, was a bookseller and publisher.

Robert went to the High School, Edinburgh and then the University of Edinburgh. He was very good at mathematics. After finishing school, he worked in a bank for a short time. He wanted to learn about business. But his real dream was to teach and study at a university.

In 1769, Robert stopped working in business. He became the head teacher, or "rector," at Perth Academy. This was a school in Scotland. Ten years later, in 1779, he got a job at the University of Aberdeen. He became a professor of natural philosophy. This subject included science and physics.

For many years, Robert Hamilton taught mathematics instead. He had a special agreement with another professor. In 1816, he officially became the professor of mathematics. He retired from teaching in 1817.

Robert Hamilton passed away in 1829. He is buried in the churchyard of the Kirk of St Nicholas in Aberdeen. His large monument, or grave marker, is easy to see near the main entrance.

Robert Hamilton's Important Books

Robert Hamilton wrote several important books. His most famous book is called Essay on the National Debt. It came out in 1813. In this book, he showed that some ideas about how countries manage their money were not correct. He explained problems with a plan called a "sinking fund." This was a way the government tried to pay off its debts. His ideas were very important for understanding economics.

Another important book was published after he died in 1830. It was called The Progress of Society. In this book, he explored how economic ideas developed as society changed. He also wrote some smaller books. These included Introduction to Merchandise (1777) and Essay on War and Peace (1790).

Robert Hamilton's Family

Robert Hamilton was married two times. His first wife was Ann Mitchell. After she passed away in 1778, he married Jane Morison. She passed away in 1825.

His uncle was also a very important person. He was the Very Rev Prof Robert Hamilton. He was a leader in the Church of Scotland.

How Robert Hamilton is Remembered

A place in Aberdeen is named after Robert Hamilton. It is called Hamilton Place. This shows how much he was respected and remembered for his work.