James Madison served as the fourth President of the United States from 1809 to 1817. Often called the Father of the Constitution, the Virginian drafted much of the framework debated in 1787 and wrote the amendments that became the Bill of Rights.
Madison was a Democratic Republican and had served as Thomas Jefferson’s secretary of state before winning the presidency.
Key Moments
His presidency was dominated by the War of 1812 against Britain. In August 1814 British troops burned the White House and the Capitol. The war ended with the Treaty of Ghent, and the Battle of New Orleans followed shortly after.
Did You Know
First Lady Dolley Madison is remembered for saving a famous portrait of George Washington before the White House burned. Madison was the shortest president, standing about five feet four inches tall.
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