hamilton had a reputation for an aggressive demeanor around others of his age. this hostile attitude was in part due to laird and his brother lyon being bigger than their classmates, and being white in their predominantly asian and hawaiian populated neighborhood. the role of the outsider profoundly affected laird through to his teen years and early adult life. he became used to this role and was uncomfortable being in the center of anything. he was also known for his physical and mental toughness.