James Madison is often recognized as the main architect of the U.S. Constitution. Playing a pivotal role during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, he proposed the Virginia Plan, which advocated for a strong national government with three distinct branches—legislative, executive, and judicial. His extensive notes from the convention provide crucial insights into the deliberative process and the framework of the Constitution. Madison also championed the Bill of Rights, ensuring that individual liberties were protected. His contributions significantly shaped the development of American democracy, establishing a system of checks and balances that remains foundational to the United States' political structure.