How to Research James Madison

James Madison was the fourth president of the United States and the first president to have had prior service as a congressman. To learn more about him, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet
• Books about the presidents
• Books about American history

1. Search government and history websites and books to learn about the best-known aspect of James Madison--his status as the "Father of the Constitution."

2. Study his biographies to learn how he helped to frame the Bill of Rights. Explore his fight against the Alien and Sedition acts. Understand why He helped to found the Democratic-Republican Party, which eventually became the Democratic Party.

3. Look for information on why his foreign policy with Great Britain was criticized by members of his own party. Also look at why the War of 1812 with Great Britain settled none of the issues.

4. Study important legislation passed during Madison's presidency such as the demilitarization of our border with Canada, the repeal of the Non-Intercourse Act and its replacement with Macon's Bill No. 2 and the establishment of the Second Bank of the United States.

5. Examine other significant events in Madison's presidency such as the Treaty of Ghent, ending the war with Great Britain. Learn about The Hartford Convention and the Star-Spangled Banner, which was written during his presidency.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Earn your degree from industry experts at University of Phoenix. Take the next step in your career.