U.S. Presidents & First Ladies
James Madison
James Madison, born in 1751 in Virginia, was a scholar and plantation owner known as the “Father of the Constitution.” An ally of Thomas Jefferson, Madison contributed to the Virginia Declaration of Rights, the Articles of Confederation and The Federalist Papers. As principal author of the Constitution and Bill of Rights, he shaped the nation’s foundation. Serving as the fourth president (1809–1817), he led the U.S. through the War of 1812 which ushered in the “Era of Good Feelings.” Afterward, he helped Jefferson start the University of Virginia and became its second leader. This letter from Madison dates from that era, 1824.
April 10, 1824
Richard Smith, Esquire
I have duly recd your favor of the 1st inst. communicating the indulgence for which I am indebted to the Directors of the Bank and inclose (sic) the note forwarded for my signature. I inclose (sic) also the amount of the discount.
James Madison
Watch JAMES MADISON
James Madison was popularly acclaimed the “Father of the Constitution” for his pivotal role in drafting the Constitution of the United States and the Bill of Rights. A Founding Father and the fourth president of the United States from 1809 to 1817, Madison has been acknowledged as history’s greatest statesman and diplomat.
