Founding1789
James Madison Proposes the Bill of Rights
James Madison introduced a proposed Bill of Rights to the First Congress, drawing from state ratifying conventions' recommended amendments and the Virginia Declaration of Rights. His initial proposal contained twelve amendments, ten of which were ultimately ratified.
Why It Matters
Madison's proposal fulfilled the promise made during ratification debates that the new government would protect individual liberties, cementing public trust in the Constitution and the new federal system.