Reuben James (c. 1776 – 3 December 1838) was a boatswain's mate[1] of the United States Navy, famous for an act of heroism in the First Barbary War.

As of current knowledge, that act was likely conducted by fellow sailor Daniel Frazier and later attributed to James due to a misunderstanding.

Born in Delaware around 1776, James joined the United States Navy and served on several ships, including the frigate USS Constellation.

During the battle, Lieutenant Stephen Decatur boarded a Tripolitan gunboat that he believed was crewed by the men who had mortally wounded his brother after supposedly surrendering.

According to early accepted accounts, Reuben James interposed himself between the descending sword and his commander, taking the blow on his head.