John Bascom (May 1, 1827 – October 2, 1911) was an American professor, college president and writer.

He was born on May 1, 1827, in Genoa, New York, and was a graduate of Williams College with the class of 1849.

He greatly influenced Senator Robert M. La Follette, Sr. during the latter's time at the University of Wisconsin.

John then wed Emma Curtiss, to whom he was married for over fifty years.

[5] During World War II the Liberty ship SS John Bascom was built in Panama City, Florida, and named in his honor.