"The people are the only legitimate fountain of power, and it is from them that the constitutional charter, under which the several branches of government hold their power, is derived"

In this quote, James Madison highlights the value of individuals in a democratic federal government. He states that the people are the only real source of power which the federal government's authority is derived from them. This implies that the federal government's power is not inherent, however rather granted by the individuals through a constitutional charter. This charter describes the functions and duties of each branch of federal government and functions as a look at their power. Madison's words highlight the idea that the government exists to serve the individuals and need to always be liable to them. Eventually, this quote strengthens the concept of popular sovereignty, where individuals hold the ultimate authority in a democratic society.