President James Madison sworn in for second term as 4th president of the United States, Elbridge Gerry as 5th VP 210 years ago this hour #OnThisDay #OTD (Mar 4 1813)


(Thursday, March 4, 1813, noon local time; during the War of 1812) — President James Madison of Virginia took the oath of office today for a second term as the 4th President of the United States in the House chamber of the U.S. Capitol.

Former Governor Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts was sworn in as the 5th Vice President of the United States. The office had been vacant since the death of Vice President George Clinton on Apr. 20, 1812.

The Democratic-Republican ticket of Madison-Gerry had defeated Federalists DeWitt Clinton-Jared Ingersoll in the 1812 election by 128-89 (Madison vs. Clinton) and 131-86 (Gerry vs. Ingersoll) votes in the Electoral College.


Video: 'President James Madison 2nd Inaugural Address - Hear and Read the Full Text'

Madison arrived at the capitol today with an escort of marines and cavalry. Chief Justice John Marshall, a long-time enemy of Madison’s, allegedly appeared disgusted when giving the oath of office.

In his inaugural address, Madison summarized American grievances against the British and attempted to rally the nation around the effort to wage the War of 1812.

After the inauguration, Madison and first lady Dolley Madison hosted an inaugural ball.