March 16 in American History

March 16, 1751 — James Madison is born

The "Father of the Constitution" was born in Virginia. Small and soft-spoken, Madison out-prepared everyone at the Constitutional Convention, shaped the document's structure, co-wrote the Federalist Papers, drafted the Bill of Rights, and served as fourth president. The quiet scholar who designed the machinery of American government.

Common Questions

What happened on March 16 in American history?

In 1751: James Madison is born. The "Father of the Constitution" was born in Virginia.

Why is March 16 significant?

The "Father of the Constitution" was born in Virginia. Small and soft-spoken, Madison out-prepared everyone at the Constitutional Convention, shaped the document's structure, co-wrote the Federalist Papers, drafted the Bill of Rights, and served as fourth president. The quiet scholar who designed the machinery of American government.

The Daily Poll · Weigh In

What's the smartest part of the constitutional design?

Opinion, not a quiz — no wrong answer.

★ Forge Your Freedom

Get One of These Every Day

The FreedomMaxxing Daily Brief pairs a history moment like this with what's on your radar today and a live patriot poll — free, 60 seconds.

Take the Free Assessment
Andrew Jackson is bornthe British evacuate Boston