James Madison

James Madison was a true genius of the early republic, the leader who did more than any other to create the nation we know today. Known as the Father of the Constitution, Madison co-authored the Federalist Papers and drafted the Bill of Rights. As secretary of state under Thomas Jefferson, he managed the Louisiana Purchase, doubling the size of the United States. As president, Madison led the country in its first war under the Constitution, the War of 1812. Historian and author Dr. Lynne Cheney and historian, educator and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Gordon S. Wood examine the legacy of one of our country’s most influential leaders.