Montserrado County

Montserrado became one of Liberia’s original counties in 1847, the same year Liberia declared independence. It was established as a county when Liberia adopted its first constitution and became a sovereign nation. At that time, Montserrado was the central administrative region of the new republic, with Monrovia as the capital.

It was the first and most important county, serving as the political, economic, and historical foundation of Liberia. Over time, other counties were formed as Liberia expanded its territorial control.

Early History and Founding (Early 19th Century)

In 1821–1822, the American Colonization Society (ACS) negotiated with local Dey and Bassa chiefs to acquire land for freed African Americans. This led to the founding of Christopolis, later renamed Monrovia in honor of U.S. President James Monroe.
Montserrado County became the heart of the Liberian colony, serving as the main settlement for freed African Americans, often called Americo-Liberians.

Colonial and Early Republic Period (19th Century)

In 1847, Liberia declared independence, with Monrovia as the capital. Montserrado remained the political, economic, and administrative center.
Conflict arose between the settlers and indigenous African groups, including the Dey, Gola, and Vai peoples, as the Americo-Liberians sought to expand control over land and resources.

20th Century Development

Montserrado continued to grow as the hub of education, government, and commerce. Institutions like the University of Liberia (founded in 1862) were established.
During the early to mid-1900s, Monrovia became a center of international trade, aided by investments from the United States and the presence of Firestone Rubber Company.

Civil Wars and Aftermath (Late 20th - Early 21st Century)

1980: A coup led by Samuel Doe overthrew the Americo-Liberian-dominated government.
1989-2003: Liberia endured two civil wars that devastated Montserrado, especially Monrovia, leading to mass displacement and destruction of infrastructure.
Post-war reconstruction: After the wars ended in 2003, Montserrado became central to Liberia’s rebuilding efforts.

Present-Day Montserrado

It remains Liberia’s most developed county, with Monrovia as the political and economic heart.
The county continues to experience rapid urbanization, economic challenges, and infrastructure development.
It is the smallest of Liberia's 15 counties in size but has the highest population, housing nearly one-third of the country’s people.