James Madison

Date of Birth: March 16, 1751

Zodiac Sign: Pisces

Date of Death: June 28, 1836

Biography

James Madison, born on March 16, 1751, in Port Conway, Virginia, was the fourth President of the United States, serving from 1809 to 1817. Known as the “Father of the Constitution,” Madison played a pivotal role in drafting and promoting the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. A key figure in the early formation of the United States, he also co-authored The Federalist Papers with Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, advocating for the ratification of the Constitution. Madison was educated at the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), where he studied a wide range of subjects, including law, philosophy, and politics. His political career began in the Virginia House of Delegates and later in the Continental Congress. As Secretary of State under President Thomas Jefferson, Madison oversaw the Louisiana Purchase and other significant events that shaped the early republic. His presidency was marked by the War of 1812, a conflict between the United States and Great Britain, which tested the young nation’s resilience. Despite initial challenges, the war ended in a stalemate, and Madison’s leadership during this difficult period helped to solidify the United States’ independence and sovereignty. After his presidency, Madison retired to his estate, Montpelier, in Virginia, where he remained active in public affairs and continued to advocate for a strong but balanced federal government until his death on June 28, 1836.

5 Interesting Facts about James Madison

1. James Madison was the smallest U.S. president, standing at only 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighing around 100 pounds.

2. He was the last founding father to die, passing away at the age of 85.

3. Madison was instrumental in drafting the Virginia Plan, which proposed a strong national government with three branches.

4. He was a key architect of the Bill of Rights, ensuring its adoption to guarantee individual liberties.

5. Madison co-founded the Democratic-Republican Party with Thomas Jefferson, which eventually evolved into the modern Democratic Party.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Madison

1. “The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty.”

2. “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.”

3. “Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.”

4. “The essence of Government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse.”

5. “Liberty may be endangered by the abuses of liberty as well as by the abuses of power.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

James Madison’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $101 million in today’s dollars, primarily due to his extensive land holdings and his plantation, Montpelier.