Collection Overview
The James Madison Papers, documents the activities of the fourth president of the United States, an architect of the Constitution. Included in Madison’s papers are materials documenting his activities as a member of the Continental Congress, his role in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, his tenure as Secretary of State during the presidency of Thomas Jefferson and his two terms as President including materials on the War of 1812. Noted correspondents include George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, Noah Webster and James Monroe. Also included in this collection are a copy of Madison’s autobiography and correspondence with his wife, Dolley.
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Special Features
These online exhibits provide context and additional information about this collection.
- Timeline
- Introduction to the Life and Papers of James Madison
- James Madison’s Ciphers
- James Madison and the Federal Constitution Convention of 1787
Historical Eras
These historical era(s) are best represented in the collection, although they may not be ll-encompassing.
- The American Revolution, 1763-1783
- The New Nation, 1780-1815
Related Collections and Exhibits
These collections and exhibits contain thematically-related primary and secondary sources. Browse the Collection Finder for more related material on the American Memory Web site.
- The George Washington Papers, 1741-1799
- The Thomas Jefferson Papers at the Library of Congress
- A Century of Lawmaking for a New Nation, 1774-1873
- Continental Congress and Constitutional Convention, 1774-1789
- Madison's Treasures
Other Resources
Recommended additional sources of information.
Search Tips
Specific guidance for searching this collection.
To find in this collection search by keyword or browse by Title, Name, or Series.
For help with general search strategies, see Finding Items in American Memory.
Last Updated: 06/30/2009