Who was the primary author of the U.S. Constitution?

James Madison is often referred to as the "Father of the Constitution" due to his pivotal role in the document's drafting and his vigorous advocacy for its ratification. He was instrumental in organizing the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and contributing to the discussions that shaped the structure of the new government. Madison's notes from the convention provide invaluable insight into the debates and ideas that led to the final text. Furthermore, he was a key author of the Federalist Papers, which were written to support the Constitution's ratification and outline its principles. This foundational work solidified his legacy as a principal architect of the Constitution. In contrast, while other prominent figures like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Jefferson had significant influences on early American governance and political thought, their contributions did not hold the same direct role in the actual drafting of the Constitution as Madison's did.