James F. Byrnes | S.C. Hall of Fame

James Francis Byrnes (1882-1972) was born in Charleston and served in all three branches of the federal government. He served in the U.S. House of Representatives (1911–25) and in the Senate (1931–41) and on the U.S. Supreme Court (1941–42).

He was a member of President Franlin D. Roosevelt's “Brain Trust," and during World War II, he served as U.S. director of war mobilization (1943–45). He was known as Franklin Roosevelt’s “Assistant President.” After the war, he served as secretary of state (1945–47). He returned to South Carolina and served as Governor from 1951 to 1955.

James F. Byrnes died on April 9, 1972.