Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Subject Area Practice Test

Who is considered the principal author of the United States Constitution?

1. George Washington

2. James Madison

3. Thomas Jefferson

4. Benjamin Franklin

The correct answer is: James Madison

James Madison is widely recognized as the principal author of the United States Constitution due to his pivotal role in its drafting and his contributions to the Federalist Papers, which were instrumental in promoting the Constitution's ratification. Madison's deep understanding of political philosophy and governance was crucial as he advocated for a strong federal government while balancing the rights of states and individuals. His notes from the Constitutional Convention provide valuable insights into the debates and decisions made during the drafting process, showcasing his influence and intellectual leadership. In contrast, while George Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention, he was not directly involved in the writing of the document itself. Thomas Jefferson, although a prominent Founding Father and author of the Declaration of Independence, was in France during the Constitution's drafting. Benjamin Franklin contributed to the debate and helped unify differing factions but did not play the same central role in authorship as Madison did.