Descriptive Record 
Enlarge Image1808-1811
The Presidency
1808
After contentious nomination within own Republican Party, James Madison elected fourth president of United States. George Clinton, who openly opposes him, is vice president.
1809
Just before Madison takes office, Embargo Act repealed as failure. Madison remains preoccupied with maritime and trade disputes with both France and Great Britain as well as longstanding quarrel with Spain over American claims to Gulf Coast, especially West Florida.
1810
In effort to ease tensions, France repeals commercial restrictions on trade. Continuing crisis with Great Britain shows no signs of easing; trade restrictions remain. Madison announces annexation of West Florida, consolidating American control of Gulf of Mexico.
1811
Unable to reach compromise with Great Britain, Madison asks Congress to mobilize American forces for defense of the country.
[Detail] The happy effects of that grand systom of shutting ports against the English.
Etching, hand-colored.
Cruikshank. 1808.
Prints and Photographs Division. Library of Congress.
LC-USZC4-6235.