James Madison

James Madison, often called the "Father of the Constitution," played a key role in shaping American democracy and governance. He believed in Social Contract Theory, which posits that governments derive their authority from the consent of the governed. Madison advocated for a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful, reflecting his understanding of sovereignty. His emphasis on individual rights and a representative democracy sought to balance majority rule with the protection of minority interests, ensuring a stable and just society. Madison's ideas remain foundational to modern democratic principles.