Charles W. Fairbanks (1852–1918) was the 26th Vice President of the United States, serving under President Theodore Roosevelt from 1905 to 1909. Born in Ohio on May 11, 1852, Fairbanks had a background in law and politics. He served as a U.S. Senator from Indiana from 1897 to 1905, where he gained a reputation as a strong advocate for business interests and a supporter of the Republican Party’s policies.

In 1904, Roosevelt selected Fairbanks as his running mate, and they were elected to the vice presidency in the 1904 election. During his time as vice president, Fairbanks had a largely ceremonial role, as the position at the time had limited executive power. He was known for his strong support of Roosevelt's progressive reforms, although he occasionally disagreed with Roosevelt on certain policies.

After serving as vice president, Fairbanks returned to private life, though he remained involved in politics. In 1916, he ran for president but was defeated in the Republican primaries. He continued to be active in Indiana’s political scene and in Republican circles until his death in 1918. Fairbanks is remembered for his service as vice president during a dynamic period in American history.