Archibald Alexander (April 17, 1772 – October 22, 1851) was an American preacher, theologian, and educator whose ministry shaped Presbyterianism through powerful sermons and leadership at Princeton Theological Seminary. Born near South River, Rockbridge County, Virginia, to William Alexander, a farmer and trader, and Ann Reid, he grew up in a Scots-Irish family, studying under William Graham at Liberty Hall Academy (later Washington and Lee University) from age ten. Converted in 1789 during a revival, he was licensed to preach in 1791 by Hanover Presbytery, ordained in 1794, and served as an itinerant pastor in Charlotte and Prince Edward counties. Alexander’s preaching career included rural Virginia pastorates, the presidency of Hampden-Sydney College (1796–1806), and a call to Pine Street Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia (1807–1812), where his eloquent sermons drew crowds. In 1812, he became the first professor at Princeton Theological Seminary, serving 39 years and preaching on grace, piety, and Scripture’s authority, influencing generations of ministers. A prolific writer, he authored Thoughts on Religious Experience and The Log College, amplifying his gospel message. Married to Janetta Waddel in 1802, daughter of blind preacher James Waddel, they had seven children, including James, William, and Joseph, all notable in their fields. Alexander died at age 79 in Princeton, New Jersey.