James Madison Biography: Wife, Age, Net Worth, Siblings, Parents, Height, Obituary, Children

James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, served from 1809 to 1817 and is recognized as one of the nation’s Founding Fathers. He passed away on June 28, 1836, at his plantation, Montpelier.

Madison was instrumental in the drafting and advocacy for the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, earning him the title of “Father of the Constitution.”

Profile

• Full Name: James Madison
• Stage Name: James Madison
• Born: 16, March 1751
• Date of death: June 28, 1836 (Aged: 85 years)
• Birthplace: Port Conway, Virginia, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Politician and 4th U.S. President
• Height: unknown
• Parent: James Madison Sr. and Nelly Conway Madison
• Siblings: Francis, Ambrose, and William, as well as sisters Nelly, Sarah, and Frances.
• Spouse: Dolley Madison (m. 1794–1836)
• Children: John Payne Todd
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $10 million

Early Life And Education

James Madison was born on March 16, 1751, in Port Conway, Virginia, to James Madison Sr. and Nelly Conway Madison. He was the eldest of twelve children, though only seven survived to adulthood. His siblings included brothers Francis, Ambrose, and William and sisters Nelly, Sarah, and Frances.

Between the ages of 11 and 16, Madison studied under Donald Robertson. He focused on subjects such as mathematics, geography, and both modern and classical languages, becoming fluent in Latin.

In 1769, he continued his education at the College of New Jersey, later known as Princeton University. Madison was of white ethnicity, and his religious beliefs were not publicly disclosed.

Career

James Madison’s career began in 1774 with his active support for the Patriots during the American Revolution. He served as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates and the Continental Congress both during and after the war.

Madison played a key role in organizing the 1787 Constitutional Convention, where his Virginia Plan became the framework for the discussions and ultimately formed the foundation of the U.S. Constitution.

Alongside Alexander Hamilton and John Jay, Madison co-authored The Federalist Papers, which were instrumental in promoting the ratification of the Constitution.

From 1801 to 1809, Madison served as Secretary of State under President Thomas Jefferson. In this role, he was crucial in securing the Louisiana Purchase and persuading Jefferson to present the treaty to the Senate for approval.

Madison’s responsibilities as Secretary of State also included overseeing American foreign policy, managing diplomatic correspondence from ministers and consuls, and acting as a vital link between the federal government and state governors. His contributions during this time were key to strengthening the young nation’s international standing and internal structure.

Madison’s political career reached its pinnacle when he became the fourth President of the United States, serving from 1809 to 1817. Early in his presidency, he sought to uphold Jefferson’s policies of reducing taxes and cutting the national debt.

In 1811, he allowed the First Bank of the United States charter to expire after choosing not to take a strong position on the matter, reflecting his preference for limited federal intervention in the economy. Madison’s presidency was also marked by the War of 1812, which shaped much of his leadership legacy during a pivotal moment in American history.

Social Media

James Madison does not have a social media account.

Personal Life

James Madison married Dolley Payne Todd on September 15, 1794, and their union lasted until he died in 1836, spanning over four decades of companionship.

While Madison had no biological children, he embraced fatherhood by adopting Dolley’s son, John Payne Todd, from her first marriage. Together, they formed a close-knit family, with Dolley playing a pivotal role in supporting Madison’s political career.

Net Worth

When adjusted for inflation, James Madison’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. His wealth was primarily accumulated through land ownership, notably his estate, Montpelier, which spanned 5,000 acres in Orange County, Virginia.