Reading James Madison’s Speech Proposing a Bill of Rights | A Primary Source Close Read w/ BRI

James Madison, justly recognized as the “Father” of the Constitution, believed that republican liberty was best preserved by the strict enumeration of governmental powers.

On March 16, we will celebrate the birthday of James Madison, who is often called the Father of the Constitution.  His theoretical and practical political beliefs and skills helped guide the drafting and ratification of the Constitution. His work laid the foundation for the United States of America today, ensuring, amongst many other things, that the Constitutional Convention produced an effective governing structure that fostered a “more perfect Union” that would last for centuries to come.  This lesson will study Madison in his own words and help students understand how his ideas continue to teach and guide us today.

Dive into some of the most important speeches and documents from United States history. These videos dissect these documents, define key terms, and explore the lasting impact of the featured documents.

Preserving the Bill of Rights teaches students Constitutional principles by examining primary source documents and significant Supreme Court cases. In addition, each unit features expanded classroom activities engaging students with the Bill of Rights and the responsibilities of citizenship. Students will understand the connection between current events and the Bill of Rights when they participate in activities such as writing letters to their elected representatives; serving in a mock jury; creating public service announcements; and writing model laws.