James Madison

Age:  57 years
old        Wife:  Dolly

Political Party:
Democratic Republican

Term(s) as President:
1809-1817

Home
State:  Born: March 16, 1751 in Port Conway, King George, Virginia

Notes:  Father of
the Constitution

Opposite of Jefferson

-
sense of humor

-
short – blue eyed

-
dressed in black

-
calm/prepared

-
did his homework

Dolly Madison – young 1st
lady, brightened Madison’s
character

-
hosted lavish parties – toast of the town

War of 1812 defined Presidency

England
and France
had been at war for several years

The nation was torn over which side to support, Americans
traded with both sides which made both sides mad.

British ships seized American ships and impressed its crews
into serving the British Navy (the sailors were forced to serve the British)

Madison
was the 1st U.S. President to ask for a “Declaration of
War.”

The war did not go well.  British forces attack and burn Washington in August
1814.

Madison
commanded a local militia during the attack and was forced to retreat.  Only sitting president to face enemy
fire.

James Monroe sent to negotiate peace.

Battle of New Orleans – won by General Andrew
Jackson after the peace treaty to end the war was signed.

Star Spangled Banner – written during this time.

American forced to enter the international political scene.

*****  Madison wanted to rent the
Portuguese Navy.  It never happened