Who was known as the "Father of the Constitution"?

James Madison is widely regarded as the "Father of the Constitution" due to his pivotal role in the drafting and promoting of the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. He was heavily involved in the Constitutional Convention of 1787, where he proposed the Virginia Plan, which laid the groundwork for the structure of the new government. Madison's contributions extended beyond the convention; he also played a crucial role in the debate over ratification by writing a series of essays known as The Federalist Papers, alongside Alexander Hamilton and John Jay. These essays defended the principles of the Constitution and addressed concerns of the Anti-Federalists.

In this context, while Alexander Hamilton contributed significantly through his own writings and proposals regarding government structure, his role does not match that of Madison when it comes to the title of "Father of the Constitution." George Washington, although instrumental in presiding over the Constitutional Convention and guiding the process, did not directly draft the document itself. Thomas Jefferson was abroad in France during the drafting of the Constitution and did not participate in its creation, although he later supported the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Madison's extensive involvement in both the creation and advocacy for the Constitution solidifies his title as the "Father of the Constitution."