James Madison University - Index

James Madison University - Liberty & Learning - Index

This is a subtle yet powerful point. While it is an elegant notion that a memorial
to James Madison exists in the libraries of all free nations, historians often
wonder why Madison’s legacy is not given the same popular attention as other
founders, such as Washington, Jefferson, and Adams. As Father of the U. S. Constitution,
Madison’s accomplishments perhaps are the most important to the perpetuity
of our democratic republic.
In this excellent introduction to James Madison, Philip Bigler examines the
life of our most brilliant founder and reveals why Madison is worthy of your
consideration. Mr. Bigler directs the Madison Center at James Madison University,
where he works tirelessly to demonstrate to students of every age how
James Madison continues to influence our nation to this very day. While teaching
humanities and history at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and
Technology, Mr. Bigler earned the 1998 National Teacher of the Year. I can think
of no one better suited to write such a work as this. Throughout his life as a historian,
Philip Bigler has been devoted to ensuring that the legacy of our nation’s
founding fathers lives on in the minds of our youth.
In remarking on that continuing educational imperative, Burr Harrison gave
no better reason why Madison matters than in his introduction to Pinchbeck’s
speech on the House floor.
“In the ceremonies at Madison College, the words, the writings of Madison
were recalled. As my thoughts were directed once more to the first years of this
Republic, I wished that it had been possible for all of the Members of this House
to be present. The demands of these crucial days often prevent our contemplation
of the basic ideas of our Government and our free society at times in which such
consideration would be most beneficial. There, as the principles which Madison
expounded and sought to enshrine for his posterity were recalled, I found a
reenforcement of the national faith.”
xviii
Dr. Linwood H. Rose
President
James Madison University