Facts about James Madison
James Madison Biography
James Madison is considered the most influential contributor to the United States Constitution, and he worked vigorously to see it ratified.
James Madison also contributed to The Federalist Papers to explain his advocacy for a strong federal government.
He grew up as a farmer on his family’s plantation, Montpelier, in northern Virginia. A graduate of College of New Jersey at Princeton (1771), Madison helped draft the Virginia constitution and served as a member of the legislature and the governor’s advisory council.
He served as a member of Congress and as Jefferson’s Secretary of State before winning the presidential election of 1808.
Madison served two terms in office, losing much of his prestige over his leadership during the War of 1812.
During the war, Madison was forced to flee Washington when the British army invaded. His wife, First Lady Dolley Madison, stayed behind and salvaged national treasures.
The last of the so-called Founding Fathers to serve as president, Madison died on June 28th, just days before the 60th anniversary of Independence Day.
Extra credit
James Madison was a slave owner… Madison was the smallest U.S. president, standing 5″ 4″ and weighing about 100 pounds… His first vice president, George Clinton, died in office in 1812; his second vice president, Elbridge Gerry, also died in office, in 1814… Madison was the last surviving signer of the Constitution… He was succeeded in office by James Monroe.