James Madison's Views on a Republic Versus a Democracy

First, take a look at the definitions of a republic and a democracy. A republic is a state or country that is not led by a monarch, in which the people have a impact on its government. Democracy is a form of government in which the state power is held by a majority of citizens within a country or state.

Although during James Madison's lifespan, he changed his beliefs, at one time he spoke out against our republic government, believing that since powers derived from the body of people, persons holding office during a period of good behavior would be dangerous. Madison strongly thought a republic government could possibly be ruled by a handful of corrupt candidates and not those from the population vote, favoring a class. He feared these nobles could use their authority and power to claim the title of republic.

James Madison, known as the "Father of the Constitution," believed the new republic needed checks and balances to protect individual rights from the majority. In 1815, Madison supported the creation of the second National Bank, a strong military, and a high tariff to give protection to factories opening during the period. Madison's goal while in Congress was to limit the power of the federal government.

Some historians are convinced that Madison's reputation with respect to the Constitution was overblown. Madison lost many debates, but the ones that have served as a foundation on which everything else was built have been preserved.