Definition

Proper noun: * James Madison: The fourth President of the United States (served 1809–1817). He is historically significant as a principal author of the U.S. Constitution, a key figure at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, and a major contributor to the Federalist Papers, which advocated for the Constitution's ratification. He is also known as the "Father of the Constitution" and later helped frame the Bill of Rights.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • James Madison was a central figure in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution.
  • The presidency of James Madison included the War of 1812.
  • Scholars study the writings of James Madison to understand the framers' intent.

Advanced Usage

• "Madisonian": Pertaining to the political principles or ideas of James Madison, especially concerning the structure of government, separation of powers, and checks and balances.
  • The Madisonian model of government emphasizes preventing the concentration of power.

Variants and Related Words

• Madisonian (adj): Relating to or characteristic of James Madison or his political theories.
• Federalist Papers: A series of essays co-authored by James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay advocating for the ratification of the Constitution.

Synonyms

• Father of the Constitution: An honorary title for James Madison.
• Fourth President: Refers to his position in the sequence of U.S. presidents.

Noun

1. 4th President of the United States; member of the Continental Congress and rapporteur at the Constitutional Convention in 1776; helped frame the Bill of Rights (1751-1836)