Timeline

1. 1817

   James Madison returns to family plantation, Montpelier, and becomes a resident plantation owner. Elected president of Agricultural Society of Albemarle, leading forum of agricultural education and reform. Through years of bad harvests and depressed agricultural markets, avoids bankruptcy mainly through savings from public-office salaries and selling-off lands in Kentucky. Founding member, American Colonization Society, which calls for emigration of free blacks to Africa; continues to hold own slaves.

   

2. 1817-1825

   Thomas Jefferson, Madison, and 21 other eminent Virginians gather to discuss, organize, and establish, with support of state of Virginia, the University of Virginia. As leading member of Board of Visitors, heavily involved with recruiting suitable faculty for fledgling institution, which opens to students in 1825.

3. July 1826

   Upon Jefferson's death, becomes rector (head) of University of Virginia; holds position for eight years.

4. 1829

   Serves as delegate to Virginia Constitutional Convention in Richmond, Virginia.

5. February 1829

   Mother, Nelly Conway Madison, dies at age of 97.

6. 1833

   Elected president, American Colonization Society.

7. 1834

   Writes "Advice to My Country" and continues plans to publish his notes of debates in Federal Constitutional Convention.

8. June 28, 1836

   Madison dies. Last of the Founding Fathers, his will does not free his slaves.