The Era of Good Feeling

"Never did a government commence under auspices so favorable."

Madison had made it successfully though his second term, and could now retire. He was the epitome of happy as he was described during the hot summer day at Montpelier. Madison and his wife, Dolley, had invited friends from 30+ miles out to come and have a barbecue. As always,  Madison was there to greet his guests personally. This says a lot about someone.  It is showing his nature, in that he is a people person, a social animal. He has an absolutely beautiful house, but would rather share it with people and his family.  It shows his leadership and acceptance of others into his home.  

James Madison, wearing black, as usual.

"The Era of Good Feeling" is exactly what is sounds like.  Everything was going great for the U.S. government. With the end of the War of 1812 against Britain, the country had become more unified than ever. as the text puts it, "Their victory over the Old World was also an assertion of the future of the New World". The country was on an absolute rise in power, economically, politically, and socially. Madison was known to boast about the $9 million that was stored up in the federal reserve. 

Since Washington had taken the oath of office, the population had doubled. Communication, post offices, and inventions in farm equipment like the cotton gin had made the economy boom. In addition, the steam boat industry had become a staple for transportation throughout the nation. With all of these factors combined, Madison's term could easily be described as on of the most successful presidential terms in history.