James Madison was an American statesman, diplomat and political theorist who served as the fourth President of the United States from 1809 to 1817. He played a pivotal role in drafting and promoting the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights. Madison grew up in Virginia and received his education at the College of New Jersey. He made significant contributions to the Constitutional Convention as a delegate from Virginia, proposing the Virginia Plan and keeping a journal of the proceedings. As President, Madison declared war on Britain in 1812 and led the nation during the War of 1812.

1. James Madison
Father of the Constitution
Fourth President of the United States

2. The Early Years
• Born in 1751 to James and
Eleanor Madison in Port
Conway, Virginia
• Grew up in Orange County,
Virginia and later inherited
his father’s estate,
Montpelier
• Grew up on a plantation
among slaves
• Received his early
education at home, then
received formal education
at the College of New
Jersey, now Princeton
• Very involved in Virginia
State politics

3. Family Life
• Married Dolley Payne
Todd at age 43
• They had no children but
it is reported that they had
a great life together
• Dolley Madison became
famous as a First Lady
and for saving many
important items during
War of 1812

4. Historical Contribution
• Constitutional Convention
Delegate from Virginia
• Proposed the Virginia
Plan which became basis
for Constitution
• Kept a Journal of the
proceedings
• 4th
President of the U.S.
• Declared War on Britain
in 1812

5. Related People or Events
• Madison served as Secretary of State to
Thomas Jefferson
• He developed friendships with George
Washington and Benjamin Franklin
• Andrew Jackson was a trusted General in
War of 1812

6. The After Years
• Madison became involved in the founding of U of
Virginia with Thomas Jefferson
• Did they do something else interesting
• Plagued with chronic illness, he was confined to
his home for much of his later life
• Died 1836 at his home in Orange County, VA
• Any famous ancestors?

7. Works Cited
• http://moderntimes.vcdh.virginia.edu/madison/ex
• http://www.encarta.msn.com/find/Concise.asp?z=
• http://www.historyguy.com/HistoricalDocu
ments.html