John W. Daniels (February 23, 1857 – June 8, 1931) was an American businessman. He was the co-founder and chairman of Archer Daniels Midland.

John W. Daniels was born on February 23, 1857, in Piqua, Ohio.^[1][2]

Daniels first worked for a linseed company in Piqua.^[1] He joined American Linseed Co. in Buffalo, New York, and later became the manager of a linseed factory in Cleveland, Ohio.^[1]

Daniels founded Daniels Linseed Co. in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1902.^[1] With George A. Archer, Daniels co-founded Archer-Daniels in 1904.^[3] After a full year of operation, the company reported a $72,000 profit.^[4] When they purchased Midland Linseed Products Co. in 1912, it became known as Archer Daniels Midland. Daniels was its chairman.^[2]

Daniels had a wife, Amelia Leonard,^[5] and a son, Thomas L. Daniels.^[1] They resided at Kenwood Parkway in St. Paul, Minnesota as well as in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.^[1] Daniels had an affinity for art and collected art works.^[1]

Daniels died on June 8, 1931, in St. Paul, Minnesota, at the age of 74.^[1][2] His funeral was held in Piqua, Ohio.^[2]