Thomas Smythe (1558 - September 4, 1625) was an English merchant and politician. Thomas, one of thirteen children, was brought up to his father's business (customs duties). When the East India Company was formed in October 1600, he was elected the first governor. Smythe was knighted in 1603 and re-elected governor of the East India Company, and, with one break 1606-7, continued to hold the office till 1621, during which time the company's trade was developed and established. Smythe financed numerous Elizabethan era trade ventures and voyages of exploration during the early 17th century. In 1609 he obtained the charter for the Virginia Company, of which he was the treasurer, an office which he held till 1620, when, on being charged with enriching himself at the expense of the company, and on a demand for inquiry, he resigned. He died in 1625 at the age of 67.