James McCulloch was a prominent figure in American history, known for his role as a banker and politician. He served as the president of the Second Bank of the United States from 1819 to 1829. His leadership during this time was marked by efforts to stabilize the nation's economy and manage the bank's operations effectively. McCulloch is also recognized for his involvement in the landmark Supreme Court case, McCulloch v. Maryland (1819). This case addressed the balance of power between state and federal governments, ultimately affirming the federal government's authority to establish a national bank and reinforcing the principle of implied powers.