Who won the first PGA Championship and in what year?

The first PGA Championship was won by Long Jim Barnes in 1916, making this answer correct. This championship, established by the Professional Golfers' Association of America, marked the beginning of what would become one of the four major championships in professional golf. Barnes' victory is significant not only because he was the inaugural champion but also because he played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of professional golf during its early years. His performance in this tournament helped to solidify the PGA Championship's status as a premier event in the golf calendar, leading to the development of professional golf into the sport we recognize today. Understanding this moment in history provides insight into the growth of golf as a profession and the establishment of competitive tournaments.