Byron Diman was born in Bristol, Rhode Island, in 1795. He began his career in a counting-house, which laid the groundwork for his later business ventures in whaling and milling. Diman served in the Rhode Island Militia, rising to the rank of Brigadier General, and was active in state politics as a member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives and the Lieutenant Governor. He was elected as the 19th Governor of Rhode Island by the General Assembly, despite not winning the majority of votes, and later served in the Rhode Island State Senate. Post-governorship, Diman remained politically active, particularly in organizing the Republican Party in Bristol.

Byron Diman's political career is marked by a blend of business acumen and military discipline, underscored by his advocacy for economic activities through his ventures in whaling and milling. His military service, culminating in the rank of Brigadier General, informs a firm stance on law and order, evident in his Law and Order Party candidacy for Governor. Diman's tenure as Governor, selected by the General Assembly despite a lack of popular majority, reveals a calculated approach to leadership that balances regional interests with a commitment to stability. His involvement in the Republican Party's organization in Bristol suggests a strategic, ideologically agile politician who navigates party dynamics with a keen eye on local concerns.