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James Madison on Birth and Allegiance

by Dr. Conspiracy on 15. May, 2009 in Citizenship

James Madison

James Madison

James Madison of Virginia, framer of the Constitution, member of Congress and 4th President of the United States is often called “The Father of the Constitution”. The Federalist Papers, co-authored by Madison, was influential in turning the tide of popular opinion in favor of the ratification of the Constitution.

In a speech before the House of Representatives in May of 1789, Madison said:

It is an established maxim, that birth is a criterion of allegiance. Birth, however, derives its force sometimes from place, and sometimes from parentage; but, in general place is the most certain criterion; it is what applies in the United States.

Abridgment of the Debates of Congress, from 1789 to 1856 From Gales and Seatons’ Annals of Congress; from Their Register of Debates; and from the Official Reported Debates, by John C. Rives By United States. Congress, Thomas Hart Benton

Thanks to contributor Ballantine for the citation.

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