James Madison's Role In American History

What would it be like to enter presidency while tensions are rapidly growing between the United States and two other countries? James Madison was practically forced to declare war on Britain in 1812, shortly after his inauguration. Great Britain had hoped to be a great ally to the United States. Instead, American ships were frequently seized by British forces. Both the vessels and their crewmembers were put to use in the service of Great Britain. Despite many efforts to contain the situation, Madison found himself ineffective in his attempts at an embargo against Great Britain. Many American politicians, also known as War Hawks, began to call for war. Although Madison was against war, he did as his nation wished by asking the Congress of the United States to declare war on Great Britain. This is the story of an American president, James Madison, a story of ambition, of war, and of leadership.
James Madison was born on March 16, 1751, in Port Conway, Virginia. He was raised on his family’s plantation by his two parents, Nellie Conway Madison and James Madison Sr., along with his seven …show more content…
Many historians say that despite the critics, he handled the war of 1812 much like that of Abraham Lincoln who is considered one of the best presidents in American history. President Madison was known for his flexible, even temperament but was not afraid to stand up for his beliefs. He fought hard for religious freedoms and felt strongly that the young nation could only thrive with a strong central, federal government. James Madison established many of the individual rights that Americans enjoy today. He was respected as a great thinker, a great communicator and a great statesman. Putting it simply, he shaped a nation. Perhaps his most often repeated advice best sums up this fascinating leader. “The advice nearest to my heart and deepest in my convictions is that the union of the States be cherished and perpetuated.”