James Madison
Fourth
President,
1809–1817
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“The happy
Union of these States is a wonder; their Constitution a miracle; their example the hope of Liberty throughout the world. Woe to the ambition that
would meditate the destruction of either!”
Double Duty:
Dubbed the "Father of the Constitution," James Madison served two terms with mixed success. As the primary author of the Bill of Rights, he helped ensure free speech, press, and religion for U.S. citizens. Madison was not as strong a military leader as he was a legislator, however. He guided the nation through the War of 1812 with Great Britain, which had been kidnapping American sailors and seizing American ships. Before the war ended, the British burned the White House and the Capitol.
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Portrait by
Chester Harding
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circa 1829-1830
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NPG.68.50
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Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery
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Fast Facts
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Party: |
Democratic-Republican
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Date of Birth: |
Tuesday, March 16, 1751
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Date of Death: |
Tuesday, June 28, 1836
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Vice President: |
George Clinton, Elbridge Gerry
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First Lady: |
Dolley Payne Todd Madison
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