Who is responsible for proposing a Bill of Rights?

The proposal of the Bill of Rights is primarily attributed to James Madison. After the Constitution was ratified, many people expressed concern about the lack of explicit protections for individual liberties. To address these concerns and to facilitate the Constitution’s acceptance, Madison introduced a series of amendments in 1789, which would eventually become the Bill of Rights. His efforts were influenced by his commitment to protecting personal freedoms and ensuring the government did not overreach its powers.

While other figures like Thomas Jefferson advocated for a Bill of Rights, especially during the ratification debates, it was Madison who took the legislative steps to formally propose it. His role as a member of the First Congress and his drafting of these amendments solidified his dedication to safeguarding civil liberties in the newly formed United States. This historical context highlights Madison's significance in the establishment of foundational principles regarding individual rights in American governance.