James Madison's Accomplishments

United States Presidents play an integral role in the formation of government policies, both domestic and foreign. James Madison, born March 16, 1751, was a powerful figure in history as well as a pivotal character in many political areas that affect the world today. He was inaugurated as the United States’ fourth president in 1809, serving in office until 1817. Before he became president, he was one of the most influential Founding Fathers, so much so, that he is widely known as the “Father of the Constitution.” He contributed greatly to the establishment of our country’s Constitution, serving as a member of the Constitutional Convention. Countless important events occurred during his presidency, but the most defining, as many historians would

He, along with many intellectuals, participated in meetings to discuss the ways the United States should be structured. There were various obstacles to overcome while discussing the foundation of our country. To start, the country was already sitting on shaky grounds due to the Articles of Confederation, put in place just after the people gained freedom from Great Britain. Various problems arose while the Articles were in place, such as issues in intertrade, people identifying with their states rather than their country, and widespread disagreements. As a solution to this national problem, James Madison, along with Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, wrote the “Federalist Papers,” which encouraged the Constitutional ideals our country would be based on. These three men published the essays anonymously, persuading voters to ratify the United States Constitution. Some argue this was Madison’s greatest political accomplishment, gaining support for the ratification of the Constitution. However, he succeeded in many other positions, as

The text states, “The breaking point came in 1803 when, following hostilities between itself and France, Great Britain imposed a blockade on the European continent and in enforcing it seized several American ships and "impressed, or forced into service against their will, a number of American and British sailors” (Miller 1). As a result, many incidents had led up to the starting point of the war, including trading issues, blockades, and Britain’s constant guard over over-sea trade. Nonetheless, this final event was the last. When James Madison became president he began what former president, Thomas Jefferson, failed to… starting a war with Great Britain. According to one article, “Shortly after delivering his war message, on 18 June 1812 James Madison signed a declaration of war, and once again the armies of the United States rose to meet the British on the field of battle” (Miller 1). While Madison was in support of taking up arms against the country, Jefferson was hesitant and attempted to keep peaceful terms. Despite his efforts, Madison inevitably brought the United States into the War of