"History Has Its Eyes On You" is the 19th song of Act One of Hamilton.
Washington recounts his first battle experience and explains that no matter how hard you try and in how many ways you may succeed, you cannot alter your reputation in others' eyes. You are always watched and recorded by history itself.
Lyrics[]
[WASHINGTON]
I was younger than you are now
When I was given my first command
I led my men straight into a massacre
I witnessed their deaths firsthand
I made every mistake
And felt the shame rise in me
And even now I lie awake
[WASHINGTON (LAURENS/MULLIGAN)]
Knowing history has its eyes on me (Whoa oh oh…)
(Whoa…)
(Whoa…)
(Yeah)
[HAMILTON/WASHINGTON (COMPANY)]
History has its eyes on me (Whoa oh oh…)
(Whoa…)
(Whoa…)
(Yeah)
[WASHINGTON]
Let me tell you what I wish I'd known
When I was young and dreamed of glory
You have no control
[WASHINGTON & COMPANY]
Who lives, who dies, who tells your story
[WASHINGTON]
I know that we can win
I know that greatness lies in you
But remember from here on in
[WASHINGTON/HAMILTON & MEN(ENSEMBLE)]
History has its eyes on you (Whoa oh oh…)
(Whoa…)
(Whoa…)
[Full Company]
History has its eyes on you
Alternate versions[]
Soundboard Recording[]
- Washington's first verse spells out his error during the French and Indian War:
[WASHINGTON]
I was younger than you are now
The year was 1754
I was given my first command
I triggered the French and Indian war
I made every mistake
And felt the shame rise in me
And even now I lie awake