James Madison – September 17, 1764

Experience the American dream with today’s Patriots of the Past interview. I’m your host, John Gillespie.

It’s September 17, 1764. I’m in Virginia, outside the stable of James Madison.

JG: “James, I know you’re being homeschooled. What are some of the subjects you’re learning?”

JM: “Mr. Gillespie, I love the Greek classics; Bible is a daily part of my studies; I’m learning Latin and Hebrew (Hebrew really fascinates me); and I’m also learning philosophy, law, and government.”

James Madison went on to graduate from Princeton University, under the guidance of the great Dr. Witherspoon. From there, he did extensive studies in Hebrew and law. With his wisdom, it’s no wonder he’s called the “Father of the Constitution.”

“Knowledge will forever govern ignorance: And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives.” – James Madison (written in his letter to W. T. Barry on August 4, 1822)

Read the full text of James Madison’s letter to W. T. Barry.

John and Jan Gillespie are the founders of the Rawhide Boys’ Ranch; they have fostered 351 teenagers and wrote the book Our 351 Sons; they have also assisted numerous churches in developing youth programs and expanding their total church ministries. After running for U.S. Senate, John founded 1776 American Dream, which exists to demonstrate the vision of our founding fathers and help our generation of youth passionately embrace those values.

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