Whitfield was born in
Rankin County, Mississippi. He began his teaching career at the age of sixteen. Whitfield obtained his teaching degree in 1895 from the
Mississippi College. Governor
Anselm J. McLaurin appointed Whitfield to state
superintendent of education in 1898. He was re-elected to the post in 1899 and 1903. Whitfield was appointed president of
Industrial Institute and College in 1907. The college experienced growth under his leadership. Whitfield was elected governor in
1923, narrowly defeating
Theodore G. Bilbo. This was also the first election in which women could vote for the governor. As governor, Whitfield recommended various progressive programs such as improving the mental health care system and public schools. In 1926, Whitfield fell ill. He went to
Memphis, Tennessee for treatment and returned to
Jackson, Mississippi. While he could conduct business, his condition worsened, and he died in the
Governor's Mansion. He is buried at the
Friendship Cemetery in
Columbus, Mississippi. == External links ==