James Madison

The life of the "Father of the Constitution" is chronicled beginning with his family in Virginia and his early beginnings in public service as a Committee of Safety member in 1774. He was more at home in politics than he was on the battlefield, however, and was elected a delegate to the Virginia Convention in 1776. He was exceedingly well-studied in all forms of government and would become instrumental in the writing of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. A stint in congress and a time as the Secretary of State would eventually help him become president. In the build-up to the War of 1812, it was President Madison who pushed back against the British while demanding an enlarged military at home. A divided government hindered his push, and it was only afterwards that the wisdom of his foresight could be appreciated. James Madison offers a deep look into one of the founders of the nation that is sure to be appreciated by presidential historians and casual observers alike.