Madison

Madison is a term that can refer to people, places, and institutions. It is used as both a surname and a given name in the United States. The name is most closely associated with James Madison (1751–1836), the fourth president of the United States, who helped draft the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights and who served as secretary of state before his presidency. The name Madison has since become popular as a given name for girls in the United States and is also used for boys.

In geography, Madison most commonly refers to Madison, Wisconsin, the state capital founded in 1836 and named for James Madison. It is a major political, educational, and cultural center and is home to the University of Wisconsin–Madison. There are numerous other places named Madison across the United States, including towns and counties in Alabama, New Jersey, Mississippi, Indiana, and elsewhere, typically named to honor James Madison.

Other notable uses include Madison Square Garden in New York City, an iconic arena and event venue, and the Madison River in Montana, among other geographic features and institutions bearing the name. Across the United States, Madison denotes a variety of locations and entities linked to the legacy of James Madison and the popularity of the given name.