we the People

20 Pages·2015·13.82 MB·English

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l
P e
o we The PeoPle | F all 2013 | conTenTs T
Pe leTTer presidenT h
e From The e P
h
e
T o
e P
w Each year as fall approaches, we gather at Montpelier and elsewhere in the nation l
e
to celebrate and recognize Constitution Day, the day when James Madison’s genius
2 3
and persistence bore fruit. The signing of the U.S. Constitution on September
17, 1787, was a pivotal point in world history—the moment when the dominant
form of government began to change from monarchy to democracy. Through the
Constitution’s ratification, our nation truly was born of the people, by the people, for
4 celebrating
the people.
While September 17 is a special day, perhaps every day in America should be constitution day
thought of as a Constitution Day. As our esteemed panel reminded us at the 7th
Annual State of the Constitution Lecture, while the Declaration of Independence is The monTPelier FoundaTion
the Why of America, the Constitution is the How. Board oF direcTors  
Gregory May,* Chairman 
As my first year as president draws to a close, I feel a tremendous sense of Kat Imhoff, President / CEO
urgency and great opportunity to further secure the Madison legacy, expand Sean T. O’Brien,
Executive Vice President / COO
Montpelier as an educational resource, and protect this historic national asset for Arthur H. Bryant, Jr.,* Secretary
John J. Sponski,* Treasurer
future generations.  
Nancy N. Campbell*
At James Madison’s Montpelier, there are many intriguing, beguiling, and Patricia Crowe*
Elinor K. Farquhar*
interesting days. Whatever day is your Montpelier day—bonny spring, crisp fall,
Florence Fowlkes*
subtle winter, or glorious summer—please support all our days of learning, evolving, Eugene W. Hickok
6 how madison secured
Dennis A. Kernahan*
and sharing. Whether your interest is exploring the old-growth forest and wandering
Stephen T. McLean*
the grounds, picking up a trowel to engage in archaeology, or expanding your American democracy Stephanie K. Meeks
Leigh B. Middleditch, Jr.
knowledge of our country, we are a place for you. Roger H. Mudd
Jack N. Rakove
Cynthia M. Reusché*
Thank you! Gail Serfaty
Ella Strubel
G. Edward White
Roger Wilkins
*Executive Committee
Kat Imhoff
President and CEO
direcTors emeriTus
Arthur J. Collias
Walter W. Craigie
David E. Gibson
Joe Grills, Chairman Emeritus
12 Finding people in the A. E. Dick Howard
Ralph Ketcham
pieces of history William H. Lewis, Chairman Emeritus
Richard Moe
Louise B. Potter 
Hunter R. Rawlings III
William C. Remington
Margaret B. Rhoads
Peter G. Rice
H. B. Sedwick III
Elizabeth B. Waters
ex oFFicio
Mrs. Henry E. I. du Pont
Mr. H. E. Irénée du Pont II
PhoToGraPhy crediTs
Kenton Rowe Photography: Cover,
Pages 2, 3 (inset photos), 6, 8, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14, 15, 18
13 Friendship For The Ages Maggie Wilson: Pages 2, 3, 19
Chuck Fazio Photography: Page 4
Audibert Photography: Pages 3, 5, 19
Tom Daly: Page 19
14 spiriT oF philAnThropY John Strader: Back Cover
We The People is published by The Montpelier
Foundation. © Copyright 2013 by The
18 monTpelier on The moVe Montpelier Foundation. All rights reserved.
e w
l
P e
o we The PeoPle | F all 2013 | conTenTs T
Pe leTTer presidenT h
e From The e P
h
e
T o
e P
w Each year as fall approaches, we gather at Montpelier and elsewhere in the nation l
e
to celebrate and recognize Constitution Day, the day when James Madison’s genius
2 3
and persistence bore fruit. The signing of the U.S. Constitution on September
17, 1787, was a pivotal point in world history—the moment when the dominant
form of government began to change from monarchy to democracy. Through the
Constitution’s ratification, our nation truly was born of the people, by the people, for
4 celebrating
the people.
While September 17 is a special day, perhaps every day in America should be constitution day
thought of as a Constitution Day. As our esteemed panel reminded us at the 7th
Annual State of the Constitution Lecture, while the Declaration of Independence is The monTPelier FoundaTion
the Why of America, the Constitution is the How. Board oF direcTors  
Gregory May,* Chairman 
As my first year as president draws to a close, I feel a tremendous sense of Kat Imhoff, President / CEO
urgency and great opportunity to further secure the Madison legacy, expand Sean T. O’Brien,
Executive Vice President / COO
Montpelier as an educational resource, and protect this historic national asset for Arthur H. Bryant, Jr.,* Secretary
John J. Sponski,* Treasurer
future generations.  
Nancy N. Campbell*
At James Madison’s Montpelier, there are many intriguing, beguiling, and Patricia Crowe*
Elinor K. Farquhar*
interesting days. Whatever day is your Montpelier day—bonny spring, crisp fall,
Florence Fowlkes*
subtle winter, or glorious summer—please support all our days of learning, evolving, Eugene W. Hickok
6 how madison secured
Dennis A. Kernahan*
and sharing. Whether your interest is exploring the old-growth forest and wandering
Stephen T. McLean*
the grounds, picking up a trowel to engage in archaeology, or expanding your American democracy Stephanie K. Meeks
Leigh B. Middleditch, Jr.
knowledge of our country, we are a place for you. Roger H. Mudd
Jack N. Rakove
Cynthia M. Reusché*
Thank you! Gail Serfaty
Ella Strubel
G. Edward White
Roger Wilkins
*Executive Committee
Kat Imhoff
President and CEO
direcTors emeriTus
Arthur J. Collias
Walter W. Craigie
David E. Gibson
Joe Grills, Chairman Emeritus
12 Finding people in the A. E. Dick Howard
Ralph Ketcham
pieces of history William H. Lewis, Chairman Emeritus
Richard Moe
Louise B. Potter 
Hunter R. Rawlings III
William C. Remington
Margaret B. Rhoads
Peter G. Rice
H. B. Sedwick III
Elizabeth B. Waters
ex oFFicio
Mrs. Henry E. I. du Pont
Mr. H. E. Irénée du Pont II
PhoToGraPhy crediTs
Kenton Rowe Photography: Cover,
Pages 2, 3 (inset photos), 6, 8, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14, 15, 18
13 Friendship For The Ages Maggie Wilson: Pages 2, 3, 19
Chuck Fazio Photography: Page 4
Audibert Photography: Pages 3, 5, 19
Tom Daly: Page 19
14 spiriT oF philAnThropY John Strader: Back Cover
We The People is published by The Montpelier
Foundation. © Copyright 2013 by The
18 monTpelier on The moVe Montpelier Foundation. All rights reserved.
e
l
P
montpelier celebrates
o
79%
e
P the constitution How long are Congressional terms?

e
h
T 1. 4 years for Senators, 2 years for Representatives 4. 6 years for Senators, 38%
e 2. 4 years for Senators, 6 years for Representatives 2 years for Representatives 23%
w 3. 4 years for Senators, 4 years for Representatives 5. Not sure 12% 13% 10% 15%
7% 2% 1%
The signing of the U.S. Constitution has been described as “the hinge point” in world history. At events in Washington, D.C.,
4
and on our historic grounds, Montpelier brought together thousands of people of all ages to celebrate Constitution Day. It’s a fact – only 38% of those surveyed know the 1 2 3 4 5
correct term length for members of Congress.
86%
what do americans really know about the constitution?
How many votes are needed to overturn a Presidential veto?
seventh annual state of the constitution address
51%
1. 51 percent 4. Three-quarters
2. Two-thirds 5. Not sure 25%
18%
3. 90 percent 8%
4% 1%2% 4% 1%
It’s a fact – 25% of respondents 1 2 3 4 5
indicate that they do not know.
90%
81%
Who is the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court?
On September 17, Montpelier’s Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution, in collaboration with the National Archives,
1. Antonin Scalia 4. Someone Else
hosted the Seventh Annual State of the Constitution Address, where nearly 300 people tested their knowledge and
2. Clarence Thomas 5. Not sure
participated in a discussion entitled “What Do Americans Really Know about the U.S. Constitution?” Using personal 3. John Roberts 15%
polling devices, the audience answered a series of questions about perceptions and interpretations of the Constitution. 3%1% 2%1% 2%2% 3%
Results were tabulated in real time, compared to national survey results, and discussed by the panel, including Senator It’s a fact – only 15% of voters between the ages of 1 2 3 4 5
Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Akhil Reed Amar of Yale, William Jay, Partner at Goodwin Procter, and Kat Imhoff 21-34 can name the current Chief Justice.
who moderated the discussion. Test your own knowledge—the results might surprise you. This event was generously
supported by the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation.
audience
85%
national
Which are the first words of the U.S. Constitution?
1. We the People 3. Article 1
2. When in the course of 4. Congress shall make no laws 35% 27%
21%
17%
human events
7% 5% 3%
It’s a fact – only 35% of those in a national survey
1 2 3 4
recognize the first words of the Preamble.
78%
Who is the “Father of the Constitution”?
50% constitution day at montpelier
what does constitution
1. Thomas Jefferson 4. John Adams
2. James Madison 5. Not sure 17% 20% Despite a rainy day, Montpelier welcomed nearly 2,000 visitors day mean to you?
3. Benjamin Franklin 14% 12% to our annual Constitution Day Celebration on Saturday,
3% 2% 0%4% September 21. In collaboration with the Orange County September 17, 1787, is the day when the
Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event included the first delegates to the Constitutional Convention met for
It’s a fact – 50% of voters aged 21-34 think
1 2 3 4 5
Jefferson. He was in France at the time. annual Taste of Freedom Wine Festival, which brought together the last time at Independence Hall in Philadelphia
an array of Virginia wineries, breweries, cider houses, and food to sign the U.S. Constitution.
62% artisans. Guests enjoyed mansion tours, rides on the Wells Fargo
As home of the Father of the Constitution and
When was the Constitution written? 55% Stagecoach, the Liberty Ride Horse Parade, and live music
Architect of the Bill of Rights, Americans are
including the James Madison University Royal Marching Dukes
1. 1787 4. 1791 drawn to Montpelier to celebrate Constitution Day
and the U.S. Navy Jazz Band, all capped off by an unforgettable
2. 1776 5. Not sure 13%11% 21% 21% and most importantly to celebrate our freedom,
fireworks display over the mansion’s front lawn.
3. 1789 liberty, and right to self-government. We share our
7%
3%4% 3%
individual perspectives on what the Constitution
It’s a fact – 55% of those in a means to us and what it means to be an American
1 2 3 4 5
national survey thought 1776.
citizen. Make it your plan to join us in 2014!
e
l
P
montpelier celebrates
o
79%
e
P the constitution How long are Congressional terms?

e
h
T 1. 4 years for Senators, 2 years for Representatives 4. 6 years for Senators, 38%
e 2. 4 years for Senators, 6 years for Representatives 2 years for Representatives 23%
w 3. 4 years for Senators, 4 years for Representatives 5. Not sure 12% 13% 10% 15%
7% 2% 1%
The signing of the U.S. Constitution has been described as “the hinge point” in world history. At events in Washington, D.C.,
4
and on our historic grounds, Montpelier brought together thousands of people of all ages to celebrate Constitution Day. It’s a fact – only 38% of those surveyed know the 1 2 3 4 5
correct term length for members of Congress.
86%
what do americans really know about the constitution?
How many votes are needed to overturn a Presidential veto?
seventh annual state of the constitution address
51%
1. 51 percent 4. Three-quarters
2. Two-thirds 5. Not sure 25%
18%
3. 90 percent 8%
4% 1%2% 4% 1%
It’s a fact – 25% of respondents 1 2 3 4 5
indicate that they do not know.
90%
81%
Who is the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court?
On September 17, Montpelier’s Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution, in collaboration with the National Archives,
1. Antonin Scalia 4. Someone Else
hosted the Seventh Annual State of the Constitution Address, where nearly 300 people tested their knowledge and
2. Clarence Thomas 5. Not sure
participated in a discussion entitled “What Do Americans Really Know about the U.S. Constitution?” Using personal 3. John Roberts 15%
polling devices, the audience answered a series of questions about perceptions and interpretations of the Constitution. 3%1% 2%1% 2%2% 3%
Results were tabulated in real time, compared to national survey results, and discussed by the panel, including Senator It’s a fact – only 15% of voters between the ages of 1 2 3 4 5
Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, Akhil Reed Amar of Yale, William Jay, Partner at Goodwin Procter, and Kat Imhoff 21-34 can name the current Chief Justice.
who moderated the discussion. Test your own knowledge—the results might surprise you. This event was generously
supported by the Claude Moore Charitable Foundation.
audience
85%
national
Which are the first words of the U.S. Constitution?
1. We the People 3. Article 1
2. When in the course of 4. Congress shall make no laws 35% 27%
21%
17%
human events
7% 5% 3%
It’s a fact – only 35% of those in a national survey
1 2 3 4
recognize the first words of the Preamble.
78%
Who is the “Father of the Constitution”?
50% constitution day at montpelier
what does constitution
1. Thomas Jefferson 4. John Adams
2. James Madison 5. Not sure 17% 20% Despite a rainy day, Montpelier welcomed nearly 2,000 visitors day mean to you?
3. Benjamin Franklin 14% 12% to our annual Constitution Day Celebration on Saturday,
3% 2% 0%4% September 21. In collaboration with the Orange County September 17, 1787, is the day when the
Chamber of Commerce, this year’s event included the first delegates to the Constitutional Convention met for
It’s a fact – 50% of voters aged 21-34 think
1 2 3 4 5
Jefferson. He was in France at the time. annual Taste of Freedom Wine Festival, which brought together the last time at Independence Hall in Philadelphia
an array of Virginia wineries, breweries, cider houses, and food to sign the U.S. Constitution.
62% artisans. Guests enjoyed mansion tours, rides on the Wells Fargo
As home of the Father of the Constitution and
When was the Constitution written? 55% Stagecoach, the Liberty Ride Horse Parade, and live music
Architect of the Bill of Rights, Americans are
including the James Madison University Royal Marching Dukes
1. 1787 4. 1791 drawn to Montpelier to celebrate Constitution Day
and the U.S. Navy Jazz Band, all capped off by an unforgettable
2. 1776 5. Not sure 13%11% 21% 21% and most importantly to celebrate our freedom,
fireworks display over the mansion’s front lawn.
3. 1789 liberty, and right to self-government. We share our
7%
3%4% 3%
individual perspectives on what the Constitution
It’s a fact – 55% of those in a means to us and what it means to be an American
1 2 3 4 5
national survey thought 1776.
citizen. Make it your plan to join us in 2014!
e w
l
P e
o T
e h
P exploring the e
e P
h
e
T o
e america on The Brink tendency of people to form factions—special interest P
w mind of madison groups opposed to the rights of others. Madison discovered le
the source of the American Confederacy’s disorder in the
6 By 1786 the American experiment with self-government 7
depths of human nature.
was on the verge of failure. The U.S. government
Madison discerned that the inherent flaw in all past
under the Articles of Confederation was too weak to
democracies was the constant threat of the tyranny of
accomplish the most basic governing functions. The
the majority who would act out of “apparent interest or
state governments, increasingly in conflict with one
common passion,” uniting against the rights and interests
another, were incapable or unwilling to maintain internal
of the minority or individuals. Ironically, Madison’s
order and protect individual rights. A mere decade after
solution to this problem was more factions—more
independence, the spirit of the American Revolution had
interests, more opinions competing with one another,
given way to fears of disintegration. America desperately
counteracting one another, and resisting the formation
needed to be reunified under a common cause.
of a tyrannical majority. He theorized that the immense
In this same year, a 35-year-old James Madison stole
size of America would be a barrier to the formation
away to Montpelier with hundreds of books collected
of a majority faction. In what he called an “extended
over many years of study. In the quiet recesses of his
republic,” a central government would represent
family home, Madison took it upon himself to find a way
the diverse interests of the people, thereby reducing
to save the young United States from ruin. In search of
the likelihood of majority factions and keeping the
a solution to his country’s problems, Madison grappled
government neutral.
with one of the most enigmatic questions of all time: how
can a nation sustain liberty without sacrificing order and
Ever pragmatic, never cynical, Madison did
justice?
not give up on the ideal of self-government.
He fully believed that only governments
In the quiet recesses of his family home,
which are held accountable to the people
Madison took it upon himself to find a way
respect the rights and liberties of the people.
to save the young United States from ruin.
However, this scheme could only work, Madison
Towards this goal, Madison critically examined over
understood, if the cacophony of demands from the people
the course of just a few months more than 2,000 years
were filtered through a select body of leaders whose
of political thought. With his mind filled with the history
reason and patriotism enabled them to discern what was
of confederacies and the ideas of political geniuses from
truly in the best interest of all—the common good. Ever
Plato to Locke, Madison spent much of the next year
pragmatic, never cynical, Madison did not give up on
from montpelier emerged traveling and rallying support for the proposed Federal
the ideal of self-government. He fully believed that only
Convention in Philadelphia, including an important
governments which are held accountable to the people
a more perfect union
visit with George Washington at Mount Vernon where he
respect the rights and liberties of the people.
convinced the famous general to attend the convention.
Madison understood, as well, that those leaders chosen
Before Madison arrived in Philadelphia in May 1787, he
from among the people would always be susceptible
had a diagnosis for America’s ills.
to mistakes and corruption. This new governing body
Every nation has its origin story and its heroes. In America we tend to point to the could become insular, using its power to promote its
The Grea TesT challenGe
own self-interest at the expense of the good of the
Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War as our national birth. That is how
To democracy: country; therefore, the government itself would need to
origin stories usually go: bold words and valiant warriors. Rarely does a great patriotic story
be governed by enforceable laws such as a separation of
“The PeoPle Themsel ves”
begin with the hero quietly reading a book. Yet, such is the story of our nation—from the powers, checks and balances, and regular elections.
Madison concluded that if all these pieces could be
chrysalis of confederation into a fully formed, popularly ratified federal republic. The
In Vices of the Political System of the United States, established and sustained, good government would be
often-forgotten hero of this story is James Madison, Father of the Constitution. a memorandum he wrote in April 1787 as part of his achieved. But, these ideas were still just in Madison’s
preparation and study, Madison concluded that the mind. The hard part would be convincing others that he
root cause of America’s difficulties was “the people was right.
themselves.” That is, Madison was concerned about the
continued on page 8
e w
l
P e
o T
e h
P exploring the e
e P
h
e
T o
e america on The Brink tendency of people to form factions—special interest P
w mind of madison groups opposed to the rights of others. Madison discovered le
the source of the American Confederacy’s disorder in the
6 By 1786 the American experiment with self-government 7
depths of human nature.
was on the verge of failure. The U.S. government
Madison discerned that the inherent flaw in all past
under the Articles of Confederation was too weak to
democracies was the constant threat of the tyranny of
accomplish the most basic governing functions. The
the majority who would act out of “apparent interest or
state governments, increasingly in conflict with one
common passion,” uniting against the rights and interests
another, were incapable or unwilling to maintain internal
of the minority or individuals. Ironically, Madison’s
order and protect individual rights. A mere decade after
solution to this problem was more factions—more
independence, the spirit of the American Revolution had
interests, more opinions competing with one another,
given way to fears of disintegration. America desperately
counteracting one another, and resisting the formation
needed to be reunified under a common cause.
of a tyrannical majority. He theorized that the immense
In this same year, a 35-year-old James Madison stole
size of America would be a barrier to the formation
away to Montpelier with hundreds of books collected
of a majority faction. In what he called an “extended
over many years of study. In the quiet recesses of his
republic,” a central government would represent
family home, Madison took it upon himself to find a way
the diverse interests of the people, thereby reducing
to save the young United States from ruin. In search of
the likelihood of majority factions and keeping the
a solution to his country’s problems, Madison grappled
government neutral.
with one of the most enigmatic questions of all time: how
can a nation sustain liberty without sacrificing order and
Ever pragmatic, never cynical, Madison did
justice?
not give up on the ideal of self-government.
He fully believed that only governments
In the quiet recesses of his family home,
which are held accountable to the people
Madison took it upon himself to find a way
respect the rights and liberties of the people.
to save the young United States from ruin.
However, this scheme could only work, Madison
Towards this goal, Madison critically examined over
understood, if the cacophony of demands from the people
the course of just a few months more than 2,000 years
were filtered through a select body of leaders whose
of political thought. With his mind filled with the history
reason and patriotism enabled them to discern what was
of confederacies and the ideas of political geniuses from
truly in the best interest of all—the common good. Ever
Plato to Locke, Madison spent much of the next year
pragmatic, never cynical, Madison did not give up on
from montpelier emerged traveling and rallying support for the proposed Federal
the ideal of self-government. He fully believed that only
Convention in Philadelphia, including an important
governments which are held accountable to the people
a more perfect union
visit with George Washington at Mount Vernon where he
respect the rights and liberties of the people.
convinced the famous general to attend the convention.
Madison understood, as well, that those leaders chosen
Before Madison arrived in Philadelphia in May 1787, he
from among the people would always be susceptible
had a diagnosis for America’s ills.
to mistakes and corruption. This new governing body
Every nation has its origin story and its heroes. In America we tend to point to the could become insular, using its power to promote its
The Grea TesT challenGe
own self-interest at the expense of the good of the
Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War as our national birth. That is how
To democracy: country; therefore, the government itself would need to
origin stories usually go: bold words and valiant warriors. Rarely does a great patriotic story
be governed by enforceable laws such as a separation of
“The PeoPle Themsel ves”
begin with the hero quietly reading a book. Yet, such is the story of our nation—from the powers, checks and balances, and regular elections.
Madison concluded that if all these pieces could be
chrysalis of confederation into a fully formed, popularly ratified federal republic. The
In Vices of the Political System of the United States, established and sustained, good government would be
often-forgotten hero of this story is James Madison, Father of the Constitution. a memorandum he wrote in April 1787 as part of his achieved. But, these ideas were still just in Madison’s
preparation and study, Madison concluded that the mind. The hard part would be convincing others that he
root cause of America’s difficulties was “the people was right.
themselves.” That is, Madison was concerned about the
continued on page 8
e w
l
P e
o continued from page 7 T
e h
P
e
e P
h
e
T o
e P
w l
“The people will have an unlikely partnership: e
8 madison and hamilton 9
virtue and intelligence
to select men of
This year marks the 225th anniversary of the most striking
virtue and wisdom…
political partnership in U.S. history, James Madison and
So that we do not… Alexander Hamilton’s collaboration on the Federalist Papers.
Between October 1787 and August 1788, Madison and
put confidence in Hamilton (with a little help from John Jay), published 85
articles in New York newspapers arguing decisively for
our rulers, but in
ratification of the newly drafted Constitution. Writing under the
pressure of stringent deadlines and inflamed political passions,
the people who are
the two men produced what Thomas Jefferson called “the best
to choose them.” commentary on the principles of government which ever was
a TurninG PoinT The BlessinGs
written.” Many scholars today still call The Federalist the finest
in world hisTory oF liBerTy —James Madison, piece of writing on political science produced in America.
Virginia Ratifying Convention, 1788
Many scholars today still call The Federalist the
When the Federal Convention began, Madison’s ideas, with The average written constitution survives just 17 James Madison, sitting at home with his books,
finest piece of writing on political science produced
the help of the other Virginia delegates, were articulated in years, but the U.S. Constitution has been in effect quietly analyzing forms of government, is not the
in America.
15 resolutions now known as the Virginia Plan. By making for more than two centuries. The U.S. government, typical image of a national hero. He does not
these proposals, Madison successfully set the agenda for the despite all its problems, inefficiencies, and history command the awe of George Washington or the
Madison and Hamilton were not close friends, and their
debates that followed. For nearly the next four months, the of injustices, is an example to the world that a free celebrity of Thomas Jefferson. Yet Madison did
views on government hardly coincided, as proven by the bitter
55 delegates, all with their own strong convictions, intensely people can govern themselves without the heavy hands more than any other individual to find a way to
political rivalry they endured later in their careers. But, in the
debated a myriad of issues raised by the Virginia Plan. of dictators or aristocracies. America demonstrates make democracy safe and enduring in America.
heat of the battle for ratification they cooperated brilliantly
On September 17, 1787, 39 delegates signed the United that liberty and stability are not mutually exclusive. At Montpelier in 1786, Madison envisioned a
on a project that was to tip the balance in New York State
States Constitution, their plan for a new federal government. In creating our democratic republic, Madison and more perfect union, and he committed the rest of
for passage of the Constitution. Just as significantly, The
By their own design, however, the implementation of the the other framers entrusted a tremendous amount of his life to making it a reality.
Federalist performed the crucial function of educating
Constitution as the highest law in the land required the power to “we the people,” the common citizenry. But,
Americans on the principles underlying the new republic that
- C. Sterling Howell, MA
consent of the governed, meaning ratification by the people power demands responsibility. Self-government means
Madison had envisioned at Montpelier and shaped through
The Montpelier Foundation
of the states. Madison’s work was not done, and he continued that we are ultimately our own governors. It is our
the long debates at the Convention in Philadelphia.
laboring tirelessly to achieve the public’s consent through his responsibility to understand how our government works Sterling Howell has been with Montpelier’s Education The best way to treat the Federalist Papers today is to READ
contributions to the Federalist Papers and his leadership at and to maintain those checks on power which are the Department for five years and has a leadership role
THEM. As I have found with students, their format makes
the Virginia Ratifying Convention. best defenses of our liberties. If we want to pass on in the development of the mansion tour and special
for splendid reading: they are bite-sized essays on what the
interest tours, as well as guide training. He was a
those same liberties to future generations, we must
principal organizer of Montpelier’s current special Constitution means and does not mean. Only three or four
Before the U.S. Constitution, the world’s populations ensure that each generation understands the roles and
exhibit “A Young Nation Stands: James Madison and pages long, each essay is a crisp, cogent argument combining
had been dominated by kings, czars, sultans, and responsibilities of American citizenship. As Madison the War of 1812,” and works closely with the Robert deep scholarship and passionate advocacy. Of his 29
emperors. Democracies had existed only for brief said, “the advancement & diffusion of Knowledge… H. Smith Center for the Constitution in its partnership
contributions, Madison’s most enduringly powerful essays are
moments in tiny corners of the world before being is the only Guardian of true liberty.” (Madison to with the Kettering Foundation. He is a graduate
probably numbers 10, 14, 37, and 51, though one could start
of North Carolina State University and earned his
overtaken by tyrants or swallowed up by large empires. Thompson, June 30, 1825).
an argument with such an assertion, given their overall quality.
master’s degree from The University of North Carolina
at Greensboro. Go forth and read the Federalist Papers!
When our Constitution was finally ratified on June 21, 1788, But, power demands responsibility.
it represented a turning point in history. Before the U.S. Self-government means that we are
Hunter R. Rawlings III
Constitution, the world’s populations had been dominated by ultimately our own governors. It is our
President, Association of
kings, czars, sultans, and emperors. Democracies had existed responsibility to understand how our
American Universities
only for brief moments in tiny corners of the world before being government works and to maintain those
President Emeritus, Cornell University
overtaken by tyrants or swallowed up by large empires. checks on power, which are the best defenses
Today, almost half of the world’s population lives under some of our liberties. Director Emeritus,
form of democracy. American success under the guidance of The Montpelier Foundation
the U.S. Constitution is the reason for this dramatic change.
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“The people will have an unlikely partnership: e
8 madison and hamilton 9
virtue and intelligence
to select men of
This year marks the 225th anniversary of the most striking
virtue and wisdom…
political partnership in U.S. history, James Madison and
So that we do not… Alexander Hamilton’s collaboration on the Federalist Papers.
Between October 1787 and August 1788, Madison and
put confidence in Hamilton (with a little help from John Jay), published 85
articles in New York newspapers arguing decisively for
our rulers, but in
ratification of the newly drafted Constitution. Writing under the
pressure of stringent deadlines and inflamed political passions,
the people who are
the two men produced what Thomas Jefferson called “the best
to choose them.” commentary on the principles of government which ever was
a TurninG PoinT The BlessinGs
written.” Many scholars today still call The Federalist the finest
in world hisTory oF liBerTy —James Madison, piece of writing on political science produced in America.
Virginia Ratifying Convention, 1788
Many scholars today still call The Federalist the
When the Federal Convention began, Madison’s ideas, with The average written constitution survives just 17 James Madison, sitting at home with his books,
finest piece of writing on political science produced
the help of the other Virginia delegates, were articulated in years, but the U.S. Constitution has been in effect quietly analyzing forms of government, is not the
in America.
15 resolutions now known as the Virginia Plan. By making for more than two centuries. The U.S. government, typical image of a national hero. He does not
these proposals, Madison successfully set the agenda for the despite all its problems, inefficiencies, and history command the awe of George Washington or the
Madison and Hamilton were not close friends, and their
debates that followed. For nearly the next four months, the of injustices, is an example to the world that a free celebrity of Thomas Jefferson. Yet Madison did
views on government hardly coincided, as proven by the bitter
55 delegates, all with their own strong convictions, intensely people can govern themselves without the heavy hands more than any other individual to find a way to
political rivalry they endured later in their careers. But, in the
debated a myriad of issues raised by the Virginia Plan. of dictators or aristocracies. America demonstrates make democracy safe and enduring in America.
heat of the battle for ratification they cooperated brilliantly
On September 17, 1787, 39 delegates signed the United that liberty and stability are not mutually exclusive. At Montpelier in 1786, Madison envisioned a
on a project that was to tip the balance in New York State
States Constitution, their plan for a new federal government. In creating our democratic republic, Madison and more perfect union, and he committed the rest of
for passage of the Constitution. Just as significantly, The
By their own design, however, the implementation of the the other framers entrusted a tremendous amount of his life to making it a reality.
Federalist performed the crucial function of educating
Constitution as the highest law in the land required the power to “we the people,” the common citizenry. But,
Americans on the principles underlying the new republic that
- C. Sterling Howell, MA
consent of the governed, meaning ratification by the people power demands responsibility. Self-government means
Madison had envisioned at Montpelier and shaped through
The Montpelier Foundation
of the states. Madison’s work was not done, and he continued that we are ultimately our own governors. It is our
the long debates at the Convention in Philadelphia.
laboring tirelessly to achieve the public’s consent through his responsibility to understand how our government works Sterling Howell has been with Montpelier’s Education The best way to treat the Federalist Papers today is to READ
contributions to the Federalist Papers and his leadership at and to maintain those checks on power which are the Department for five years and has a leadership role
THEM. As I have found with students, their format makes
the Virginia Ratifying Convention. best defenses of our liberties. If we want to pass on in the development of the mansion tour and special
for splendid reading: they are bite-sized essays on what the
interest tours, as well as guide training. He was a
those same liberties to future generations, we must
principal organizer of Montpelier’s current special Constitution means and does not mean. Only three or four
Before the U.S. Constitution, the world’s populations ensure that each generation understands the roles and
exhibit “A Young Nation Stands: James Madison and pages long, each essay is a crisp, cogent argument combining
had been dominated by kings, czars, sultans, and responsibilities of American citizenship. As Madison the War of 1812,” and works closely with the Robert deep scholarship and passionate advocacy. Of his 29
emperors. Democracies had existed only for brief said, “the advancement & diffusion of Knowledge… H. Smith Center for the Constitution in its partnership
contributions, Madison’s most enduringly powerful essays are
moments in tiny corners of the world before being is the only Guardian of true liberty.” (Madison to with the Kettering Foundation. He is a graduate
probably numbers 10, 14, 37, and 51, though one could start
of North Carolina State University and earned his
overtaken by tyrants or swallowed up by large empires. Thompson, June 30, 1825).
an argument with such an assertion, given their overall quality.
master’s degree from The University of North Carolina
at Greensboro. Go forth and read the Federalist Papers!
When our Constitution was finally ratified on June 21, 1788, But, power demands responsibility.
it represented a turning point in history. Before the U.S. Self-government means that we are
Hunter R. Rawlings III
Constitution, the world’s populations had been dominated by ultimately our own governors. It is our
President, Association of
kings, czars, sultans, and emperors. Democracies had existed responsibility to understand how our
American Universities
only for brief moments in tiny corners of the world before being government works and to maintain those
President Emeritus, Cornell University
overtaken by tyrants or swallowed up by large empires. checks on power, which are the best defenses
Today, almost half of the world’s population lives under some of our liberties. Director Emeritus,
form of democracy. American success under the guidance of The Montpelier Foundation
the U.S. Constitution is the reason for this dramatic change.
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eXplore
Montpelier
There’s more Than meeTs The eye
Montpelier spans 2,650 acres in Orange County, Virginia in the foothills
of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Observe native flora through three miles of
forested walking trails. Restore your senses in the Annie du Pont Garden.
Tour the mansion and delve into the personalities, styles, and friendships
of James and Dolley Madison. Learn how archaeologists are piecing
together the unwritten histories of Montpelier’s enslaved community.
Expand your knowledge about Madison’s roles in crafting the Constitution,
as well as Montpelier’s history during the Civil War and the Jim Crowe era.
No need to leave your kids at home—we have kid-sized archaeology in
the lab and touchable exhibits in Dolley’s kitchen. Our grounds are open
to visitors year-round at no cost.
Explore America’s founding roots.