Paul Hamilton (October 16, 1762 – June 30, 1816) was the 3rd United States Secretary of the Navy, from 1809 to 1813.

During the American War of Independence he served in military roles in the Southern United States, fighting under General Francis Marion.

His term in office included the first months of the War of 1812, during which time the small United States Navy achieved several remarkable victories over British warships.

Although he wanted to strengthen the Navy, he found the Congress hostile and the President indifferent to his ideas.

Secretary Hamilton resigned at the end of 1812 and returned to South Carolina, where he died in Beaufort on June 30, 1816.