In 2004, the 200th anniversary of Alexander Hamilton’s death, perhaps it is time to consider a suggestion made long ago. In 1788, Hamilton led the successful drive in Poughkeepsie to have New York State ratify the Constitution he had helped write the year before, and supporters of the new plan of government held a celebratory parade in lower Manhattan. It featured a large float labeled the federal ship Hamilton. During the festivities, it was suggested that the City of New York be renamed Hamiltoniana, in honor of its leading citizen and modern nation-builder.

The suggestion was not taken up. But surely “Hamiltoniana” (or perhaps “Hamiltonia”) resonates more in the manner of “Washington” than does a name stuck on our city in the 1660s by a Duke of York, especially one who later was such a bad king, James II, that even the British had to depose him.

In any case, this year Hamilton finally appears to be getting his due. Just last night, “The Duel: Hamilton vs. Burr,” narrated by Richard Dreyfuss, premiered on the History Channel. Ron Chernow’s massive and splendid biography, “Alexander Hamilton,” appeared earlier this year. And next week the New-York Historical Society opens a major exhibition, curated by Richard Brookhiser and appropriately titled, “Alexander Hamilton: The Man Who Made Modern America.” It’s set for a six-month run and the society will be holding numerous events to coincide with it.

If Republicans in town delay their departure for just a few days after their convention, they can learn more about the New Yorker who made Washington what it is today.