James Madison sworn in for a second term as US President

Background. Madison served as the fourth president from 1809 to 1817. His second term began after he was re-elected in the 1812 election, which was held during the early stages of the War of 1812. The election was contested by a dissident group of New York Democratic-Republicans who nominated DeWitt Clinton to oppose Madison.

Political Context. Madison was re-nominated without opposition by the Democratic-Republicans. However, a dissident faction nominated DeWitt Clinton, the lieutenant governor of New York, to challenge Madison. To shore up support in the Northeast, where the war was unpopular, Madison selected Governor Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts as his running mate.

Inauguration Details. The inauguration took place in Washington, D.C., on March 4, 1813. Vice President George Clinton was sworn in for a second term, making him the first U.S. vice president to serve under two presidents. The ceremony occurred during the ongoing War of 1812, which had begun in 1812.

Legacy. Historians generally rank Madison as an above-average president, though they are critical of his leadership during the War of 1812. The war ended inconclusively in 1815, but many Americans viewed it as a successful "second war of independence" against Britain, which bolstered Madison's popularity.