James K. Vardaman was an American politician who served as the Governor of Mississippi from 1904 to 1908. He was a member of the Democratic Party and is known for his strong support of white supremacy and segregationist policies during the early 20th century. Vardaman's administration focused on issues such as education and infrastructure, but his legacy is often overshadowed by his controversial views on race. After his governorship, Vardaman was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1913, where he served until 1917. His time in the Senate was marked by his opposition to World War I and his advocacy for agricultural interests. Vardaman's political career reflects the complexities of Southern politics during a time of significant social change in the United States.