what was the westerners who called for war against britain in 1812

James Madison’s terms in the White House were dominated by foreign dilemmas-the last years of the Napoleonic Wars. She is best known for having saved a famous portrait of George Washington from the British as they approached and then burned the White House in 1814.įor a good read about Madison and his contemporaries, including the women, try the fine book 1812 by David Nevin, a first rate historical novel. Like many other great women in supporting roles, Dolley Madison served her husband and her country well. While he was small in stature and lacked a strong speaking voice, he knew how to get things done. Dolley Madison, known for her physical attractiveness and cleverness at entertaining and decorating, was a sophisticated political companion who knew how to use her feminine charms in the service of her husband's political career.Įver faithful to her “Jemmy,” Dolley entertained at the White House in a manner suggestive of the salons of Paris, collecting information and seeing to it that those who needed her husband’s ear could get it. James Madison is sometimes viewed as being temperamentally unsuited for leadership, but a closer examination of his performance at the Constitutional Convention of 1787, his term as Speaker of the House, as Secretary of State under Jefferson and as President reveals otherwise. Madison was selected as Jefferson's successor by Republicans in Congress and won the election of 1808 easily. As Jefferson’s Secretary of State and closest advisor, Madison’s transition to the higher office was essentially seamless, yet he inherited most of the same problems with which Jefferson had been dealing.

Madison and Jefferson exchanged frequent visits when able, and their collected correspondence fills three hefty volumes. Madison's home, Montpelier, near Orange, Virginia, is about 27 miles from Monticello. James Madison was a close friend and political ally of Jefferson.

What was the westerners who called for war against britain in 1812