The United States president preserves, protects, and defends the U.S. Constitution. Each president's term influences events in America and around the world for years to come. This biography introduces young readers to the life of James Monroe, beginning with his childhood in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Information about Monroe's education at the College of William and Mary, as well as his early career as a lawyer is discussed. In addition, his family and personal life, as well as his retirement years in Virginia, where he was a regent at the University of Virginia, and New York, is highlighted. Easy-to-read text details Monroe's military service in the Third Virginia Regiment in the American Revolution, during which he crossed the Delaware River with General George Washington, and his political career in the Virginia House of Delegates, the Council of State, the Continental Congress, and as minister to France, governor of Virginia, signer of the Louisiana Purchase, minister to Great Britain, and secretary of state and secretary of war under President James Madison during the War of 1812. Finally, students will explore key events from Democratic-Republican president Monroe's administration, including the First Seminole War, the Missouri Compromise, and the Monroe Doctrine. Beautiful graphics showcase the primary source documents and photographs. A timeline, fast facts, and sidebars help put essential information at students' fingertips. In addition, a quick-reference chart provides easy access to facts about every U.S. president. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.