James Madison is known as the "Father of the Constitution" in the United States. He played a crucial role in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and was instrumental in the development of the Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the Constitution. Madison’s advocacy for a strong federal government and his contributions to The Federalist Papers, a series of essays promoting the ratification of the Constitution, solidified his reputation. His insights into checks and balances and the separation of powers were pivotal in shaping the framework for American governance, which continues to influence democratic systems today.