A Compilation of the Messages and Papers of the Presidents Volume 1, part 4: James Madison   By: James D. Richardson (1843-1914)

In this comprehensive volume, James D. Richardson provides readers with a detailed account of James Madison's presidency through a collection of his messages and papers. The book offers valuable insight into Madison's leadership style, political decisions, and the challenges he faced during his time in office. Richardson does an excellent job of organizing and presenting the material in a clear and coherent manner, making it easy for readers to follow along and understand the historical context of Madison's presidency. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and the presidency of James Madison.

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James Madison was born in King George County, Va., on the 16th of March, 1751. He was the son of James Madison, the family being of English descent, and among the early settlers of Virginia. Was fitted for college by private tutors, and entered Princeton College in 1769, graduating in 1771; remained a year at college pursuing his studies. After this he returned to Virginia and began the practice of law. In 1776 was elected a member of the general assembly of Virginia, and in 1778 was appointed a member of the executive council. In the winter of 1779 80 was chosen a delegate to the Continental Congress, of which body he continued an active and prominent member till 1784. The legislature of Virginia appointed him in 1786 a delegate to a convention at Annapolis, Md., to devise a system of commercial regulations for all the States. Upon their recommendation a convention of delegates from all the States was held in Philadelphia in May, 1787. This Convention framed the Constitution of the United States, and of it Mr. Madison was a leading member. He was next a member of the convention of his State which met to consider the new Constitution for the United States... Continue reading book >>