James Madison Center: Teacher Resources: The Donald Robertson Project

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Donald Robertson ran one of the finest schools in colonial Virginia during the 18th Century. As a young man, James Madison attended Robertson's institution in King and Queen County and there studied Latin, Greek, mathematics and literature. It was here under Donald Robertson's able tutelage, that the youthful Madison was first exposed to the ideals of the Enlightenment and where he read such influential political philosophers as Montesquieu and John Locke. During these formative years, Madison continued to develop intellectually and would later credit his teacher as one of the most important influences in his life. He wrote, "[Donald Robertson was] a man of extensive learning, and a distinguished teacher…All that I have been in my life, I owe largely to this man."

The Donald Robertson Project is dedicated to the lasting memory of James Madison's first teacher. Madison came to believe that a well educated citizenry was essential to the health and well being of the American republic. In 1822 he wrote, "Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."

Teachers are the single most important factor in achieving James Madison's vision of an educated and enlightened populace. The Center recognizes and celebrates the key role that educators play in American society and is dedicated to helping teachers through: