The Father of the Constitution: Madison's Vision

Dr. Colleen Sheehan explains why James Madison deserves the title "Father of the Constitution" and explores how this quiet, scholarly founder shaped American democracy through his preparation, vision, and belief in self-government.• Madison was uniquely prepared for the Constitutional Convention, having studied the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation• The Virginia Plan, based on Madison's ideas, set the agenda for the Constitutional Convention• Madison combined the roles of statesman and scholar, preferring books over fashion• The founders faced the unprecedented challenge of creating a government where people could rule themselves• Madison believed the Constitution's purpose was to provide a framework for self-governance based on justice• Important Madison writings include Federalist 39, 49, 51, and his piece "Public Opinion"• Unlike Washington or Jefferson, Madison has no monument, but the Library of Congress is a fitting tribute.American Founders Book Check Out the Civic Literacy Curriculum!School of Civic and Economic Thought and LeadershipCenter for American Civics