James Logan was a prominent American politician and businessman in the 18th century. Born in 1674 in Ireland, he immigrated to Pennsylvania, where he became a successful merchant and landowner. Logan served as the Secretary of the Province of Pennsylvania and was known for his influential role in the early governance of the colony. In addition to his political career, Logan was an avid collector of books and natural history specimens. He established the Logan Library, one of the first libraries in America, and contributed to the development of the University of Pennsylvania. His legacy includes his impact on education and governance in colonial America.