Fun Facts About James Madison

Portrait of James Madison by John Vanderlyn

James Madison, America’s fourth president, may have been small in size, but he played a huge role in shaping the country! Here are six fun and little-known facts about James Madison that kids will enjoy.

1. He Was the Smallest U.S. President

James Madison was the shortest president in U.S. history, standing at only 5 feet 4 inches tall! He also weighed less than 100 pounds, making him smaller than most modern middle schoolers.

2. He Was Called the “Father of the Constitution”

Madison helped write the U.S. Constitution, which is the set of rules that governs the country. He took so many notes at the Constitutional Convention that without him, we might not know exactly what happened in those historic meetings!

3. He Was Super Shy but a Brilliant Thinker

Unlike his friends George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, Madison wasn’t a big talker. He was quiet and shy, but he made up for it by being one of the smartest presidents ever! He studied hard and even learned Greek and Latin.

4. His Wife, Dolley Madison, Saved the Day!

During the War of 1812, the British burned the White House, but Madison’s wife, Dolley Madison, rescued a giant painting of George Washington before escaping. Thanks to her, we still have the famous painting today!

5. He Loved Ice Cream—A Lot!

Madison and his wife helped make ice cream popular in the U.S.! Dolley Madison was famous for serving ice cream at White House parties, and she may have even introduced Americans to flavors like strawberry!

6. He and Thomas Jefferson Were Best Buddies

Madison and Thomas Jefferson were not just political partners—they were best friends! They worked together to start a political party, wrote important papers, and even traveled through the countryside on horseback, talking about ideas for the country.