Born in Cleveland, Ohio, ALBERT BLAKESLEE WHITE graduated from Marietta College and received law degrees from that institution as well as from West Virginia University. He began his career as a newspaper reporter, editor, and owner, after which he was appointed Collector of Internal Revenue for the District of West Virginia. As governor, he oversaw the enactment and implementation of legislation establishing a State Tax Commission. After completing one term as governor, he became West Virginia Tax Commissioner for two years starting in 1907. He also served on the State Board of Education, was involved in welfare work overseas, and was appointed Collector of Internal Revenue for a second time, serving from 1921 to 1925. He was a member of the West Virginia State Senate from 1927 to 1931.