James Madison:

Father Of The Constitution

D. S. Mitchell

Fourth President of the United States

James Madison stood 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighed only 100 pounds, as a grown man. He had a sickly childhood. Although medically undetermined, his condition bore a resemblance to epilepsy. Due to his soft speech he was often difficult to hear and understand. Despite his physical limitations, Madison became the fourth president of the United States. During his two term tenure he led America through the War of 1812. The War of 1812 was America’s first war as an independent nation. Madison’s actions during the war established the  fledgling country as a force on the world stage.

“Father” of the Constitution

James Madison co-wrote the U.S. Constitution. So many of Madison’s ideas were incorporated into the Constitution that he is credited as being the “father” of the Constitution. He was a man of great intellect and accomplishment. His  life was characterized by hard work and humility. He was born March 16, 1751. Madison like all men was not perfect. But, it is important to remember he dedicated the entirety of  his life to the service to his country and it’s people.

Ground Breaking Political Philosophy

To muster support for the new Constitution, Madison, Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, co-wrote 85 letters to the public. These public letters explained the political philosophy underpinning the new Constitution. The papers in effect  defended each of its provisions. These public letters are known as “The Federalist Papers”. Without the “Federalist Papers” the Constitution would never have been ratified. Today, these documents are recognized as some of the most important declarations of political philosophy ever written.

Bill of Rights

Even as the “Federalist Papers” circulated, the legislatures of several colonies remained hesitant. They wanted reassurance from the leaders, before they would support the formation of the new country. Massachusetts, Maryland and South Carolina ratified the Constitution, only because of James Madison. His impeccable character and tireless energy was at the core of the ratification of the Constitution. Madison answered the noted concerns by writing the Bill of Rights.

A Man of His Time

Madison held contradictory views on slavery throughout his life. He argued that slavery was incompatible with Revolutionary principles, despite the fact he owned over one hundred slaves that worked his Virginia tobacco plantation, Montpelier. Madison brought enslaved people to the White House, and ultimately used them for the re-construction of the White House after its destruction in 1814.  James Madison was a man of his time. Unlike George Washington he did not emancipate his slaves upon his death.  He did not end slavery, but he helped lay the groundwork for ending slavery. Madison, referred to slaves as people, rather than property, which in itself was remarkable for the time.

Dolley Madison

Madison was a shy and quiet man.  Dolley Madison was 17 years his junior. She was vivacious, exuberant and charming. While James Madison was president, Dolley Madison defined the role of First Lady. As a couple they hosted and entertained countless guests at the White House. Politicians from many different backgrounds and viewpoints gathered and socialized. Dolley was an extremely effective political connector. Dolley was politically astute and served her husband well. She is without a doubt one of the most important women of her time.

War of 1812

The war of 1812 lasted from 6/18/12 to 2/18/15. On August 24, 1814, British troops entered Washington, D.C. and burned the Capitol, the White House and other government buildings in retaliation for the American attack on the city of York in Ontario, Canada. As the Americans fled the advancing British troops Dolley famously saved a portrait of George Washington, making her a national hero.

Celebrate Freedom

James Madison although a sickly man most of his life lived to the exceptional age of 85.  It is important to recognize and celebrate him by remembering the contributions he made to our government, our freedom, our justice, and the very fabric of our nation, not his shortcomings. Happy Birthday, James Madison!