ABSTRACT
One of the most active and influential participants in the American Revolution and early republic, James Madison shaped the framework US government that has endured to the present. Although Madison served in the Continental Congress from 1780 to 1783, his major accomplishment took place as a result of his involvement in the Constitutional Convention. In 1801 Madison was appointed secretary of state in Thomas Jefferson's administration, and succeeded him as president in 1809. His administration waged a successful war against Britain over the issue of American neutrality in the Napoleonic Wars. Madison served two terms as president, retiring to his Virginia estate in 1817. Madison's legacy extends to his government service following ratification of the Constitution. His anti-Federalist position led to the creation of the Democratic—Republican Party, which attracted the loyalty of southern and western interests. As president, Madison avoided defeat at the hands of the British in the War of 1812, confirming US sovereignty.
