Victoria+A.+-+Jmad+-+SP10


 * James Madison**
 * March 16, 1751-June 28, 1836**
 * Political Party: Democratic-Republican**
 * Terms: 1809-1812, 1813-1817; (2 terms)**
 * Vice Presidents:** **George Clinton (1809-1812), Elbridge Gerry (1813-1817)**



The fall of the Federalist Party, the end of the Embargo Act, the Non-Intercourse Act, the War of 1812, and the “Era of Good Feelings.” Madison’s presidency was filled with ups and downs, as is any, but the way in which Madison handled his issues at hand makes him well deserve an A-. Previous presidents were concerned with only remaining neutral in foreign affairs; yet when foreign issues arise, one must take action. Madison deserves his grade because during difficult times, he made decisions based solely for the good of the country.

Throughout Madison’s presidency he had only one main goal that he wanted to accomplish. This goal was dealing with foreign affairs; mainly with Britain and France. Madison first dealt with foreign affairs by passing the Non-Intercourse act in 1809. This restricted all trade with Britain and France, and while it was not very successful, it was removed and replaced by Macon’s Bill No. 2, which lifted all trade restrictions. This then also led to the war of 1812. Although America was technically neutral, there were still attachments to Britain and France and through the War of 1812, all ties were completely cut. Although the War of 1812 did not allow the United States to remain neutral, it did end conflicts with Britain. America was successful in this goal because they succeeded against the British once again and helped give Americans confidence as a country. Once again, America won a war against Britain, and foreign affairs were resolved.

James Madison was Federalist and was also president during the fall of the Federalist Party. Democratic-Republicans were beginning to spread and many members of congress were of this party. Congress would challenge Madison with bills. Originally, Madison wanted to veto the least amount of bills as possible. By the end of his presidency, he had vetoed seven. The main dispute between congress and Madison was the War of 1812. Congress did not support the war, and therefore did not aid in funding the war nor did they increase Navy support. The last two terms of Madison’s presidency were the best. Once the War of 1812 ended, his relationship with congress improved.

The most positive, and negative outcome of Madison’s presidency is the War of 1812. When America is trying to remain neutral with all countries, war is always negative. Perhaps America could have avoided going to war again with Britain, and saved the lives of fellow Americans; for this reason, it is negative. However, the war did have a positive outcome. After the victory in New Orleans, America continued to achieve and annihilate the British. Once the war was over, it gave Americans a sense of pride, and nationalism swept the country. Things were finally looking up, and the “Era of Good Feelings” arose because Americans wanted to forget about political issues.

It is argued that Madison is the most influential “founding father” of our nation. He was a major contributor to the Constitution, wrote federalist letters, and is the leader of the bill of rights. Madison also established the second bank of the United States. The second bank was not perfect, and eventually went bankrupt, but in the short run it did help lower inflation after the war of 1812. Even though the Federalist Party fell, the Constitution and Bill of Rights are still the basis of American laws.

Madison left presidency in 1817 after serving two terms. He rightfully deserves an A- for his time served as president. Madison achieved his goal of confronting foreign affairs and left the country successful. Although the bills, acts, and wars were difficult decisions that not every one supported, Madison made his decisions with the country’s best interest in mind. Madison not only showed Americans what the country was capable of, but he also showed other countries the seriousness and potential of America. I believe he left office with America in a better state than when he entered office.


 * Works Cited**"American President: James Madison: Impact and Legacy." //Miller Center of Public Affairs//. Web. 19 Feb. 2010. ."James Madison." //NNDB: Tracking the entire world//. Web. 19 Feb. 2010. ."James Madison on the Relationship Between Democratic Theory and Federalism." //CJSPS HOMEPAGE AASU//. Web. 18 Feb. 2010. ."James Madison." //Virtualology A Virtual Education Project//. Web. 19 Feb. 2010. .