James Wilson (Secretary of Agriculture)

James Wilson (1836 – 1920), also known as "Tama Jim," served as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture for sixteen years, from 1897 to 1913, during the administrations of Presidents William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, and William Howard Taft. This unprecedented tenure makes him the longest-serving cabinet member in United States history.

Born in Ayrshire, Scotland, Wilson emigrated to the United States with his family in 1851, settling in Tama County, Iowa. He was a professor of agriculture at Iowa Agricultural College (now Iowa State University) from 1870 to 1877 and served as a member of the Iowa legislature. Later, he served in the United States House of Representatives for three terms (1873-1877 and 1883-1885).

As Secretary of Agriculture, Wilson oversaw a significant expansion of the Department's scope and influence. He is credited with modernizing agricultural practices through scientific research and education. Wilson played a key role in the establishment of agricultural experiment stations, the development of new crop varieties, and the promotion of soil conservation techniques. He championed the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906, recognizing the USDA's role in protecting consumers. Under his leadership, the Department's budget and staff grew substantially, reflecting the increasing importance of agriculture to the American economy. He fostered collaborative relationships with agricultural colleges and universities to disseminate research findings and promote best practices among farmers. His tenure is considered a golden age for American agriculture.