James Barbour was an American politician and lawyer who served as the 18th Governor of Virginia from 1812 to 1814. He was born on June 10, 1775, and was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. Barbour played a significant role in the early 19th-century political landscape and was known for his support of states' rights. In addition to his governorship, Barbour was also a U.S. Senator from Virginia and held various other political positions throughout his career. He was involved in the founding of the University of Virginia and contributed to the development of the state's educational system. Barbour passed away on June 7, 1842.