in getting Burr convicted he did accomplish the driving objective. After the trial Burr was so hated by the public that he was almost lynched in the streets and was forced to flee America in a disguise to Europe where he stayed for four years in complete poverty. When he finally returned to United States his daughter and young grandson died at sea.On his deathbed in 1836 a friend asked Burr if he had ever intended to separate the West from the Union. Burr responded, NO! I would as soon have thought of taking possession of the moon and informing my friends that I intended to divide it among them. Still, as an example of how politicians use speech filled with noble sentiments to pursue the basest of political aims, the trial of Aaron Burr remains relevant. Those shocked by the self serving behavior during our last presidential election---lamenting the passing of more dignified times---may, by studying history, find that things really havent changed that much at all....
