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James Madison, Jr. (1751–1836) was an American politician, the fourth President of the United States (1809–1817), and one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Considered to be the "Father of the Constitution", he was the principal author of the document. In 1788, he wrote over a third of the Federalist Papers, still the most influential commentary on the Constitution.
As Secretary of State for Thomas Jefferson, Madison oversaw the Louisiana Purchase. As president, Madison lead the country against Britain in the War of 1812.
James Madison in Trail of Glory[]
After the fiasco at the Battle of Bladensburg, President James Madison and his Cabinet quickly left Washington as British troops advanced on the city. After regrouping at a tavern in Georgetown, Madison, Secretary of the Navy William Jones, and Attorney General Richard Rush moved on after it was agreed the officials would disperse to avoid capture en masse. Thus, Madison did not learn until later that Captain Sam Houston had decided to stay and defend the Capitol Building.
Madison was brought back to the tavern later that night. He learned from Secretary of War John Armstrong that the Capitol was still in American hands. Armstrong was also quick to suggest that General William Winder, the commander who'd caused the disaster at Blandensburg, be transferred to Baltimore. Madison quickly agreed. He also accepted Armstrong's plan to rally American troops and relieve the Capitol. Armstrong also informed Madison that Secretary of States James Monroe was in the Capitol, and that the Executive Mansion had been burned down. Madison wanted to join the battle, but Armstrong convinced him to stay in the tavern.
Madison made his was to the Capitol after the British retreated. He arrived in time to see Houston speak. He also consulted with Monroe, informing him that General Andrew Jackson had forced the Creek to sign the Treaty of Fort Jackson. Madison was reunited with his wife, Dolley, who hosted a victory celebration.
Madison presided over the country's ulimate victory in the War of 1812, which finally came in 1815. Monroe was elected his successor in 1816.
See Also[]
- James Madison Harry Turtledove Wiki
| Political offices (OTL) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Thomas Jefferson |
President of the United States 1809-1817 |
Succeeded by James Monroe |
| Preceded by John Marshall |
Secretary of State for the United States 1801-1809 |
Succeeded by Robert Smith |
| Political offices (Trail of Glory) | ||
| Preceded by Thomas Jefferson |
President of the United States 1809-1817 |
Succeeded by James Monroe |
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