James Glendinning (July 31, 1844 – March 23, 1902) was an American politician who served as the Mayor of Salt Lake City from 1896 to 1897.

While residing with an older brother, he completed his education at Cooper Union in New York City, then moved west to establish himself in business.

After time in Montana, he moved to Salmon, Idaho, where he was a partner in mining and retailing ventures with George L. Shoup.

[1] He was educated in Scotland, and following the deaths of his parents, at age 20 he moved to New York City to reside with an older brother.

[1] After residing briefly in Virginia City, Montana, in 1866 he moved to Leesburg, Idaho, where he partnered with George L. Shoup in ventures including cattle raising, gold mining, and retailing.