Stephen Allen Benson

Joseph Jenkins Roberts (1809–1876) was a pioneering statesman and the first President of Liberia, serving two non-consecutive terms (1848–1856 and 1872–1876). Born free in Norfolk, Virginia, USA, Roberts was of mixed African and European ancestry. Though free, he and his family faced racial discrimination, which influenced their decision to emigrate to Liberia in 1829 under the American Colonization Society (ACS), an organization that sought to resettle freed African Americans in West Africa.

Early Life and Emigration to Liberia

Stephen Allen Benson was born in Maryland, United States, on May 21, 1816. He was one of many free African Americans who emigrated to Liberia under the sponsorship of the American Colonization Society (ACS), an organization that aimed to resettle freed African Americans in West Africa. In 1822, at the age of six, Benson and his family relocated to Liberia, joining other settlers in the newly established colony.

Early Career in Liberia

Benson quickly adapted to life in Liberia and became involved in both business and politics. His intelligence and leadership abilities earned him several administrative roles within the Liberian government. Before becoming president, he worked as a judge, a military officer, and later as Vice President of Liberia from 1854 to 1856 under the first president, Joseph Jenkins Roberts.

Presidency (1856-1864)

Benson was elected as the 2nd President of Liberia in 1856, succeeding Roberts. His presidency was marked by several significant achievements:

Annexation of Maryland in Africa (1857): The colony of Maryland in Africa, established by the Maryland State Colonization Society, struggled with local conflicts and governance. When it faced attacks from indigenous tribes, it sought help from Liberia. In 1857, under Benson’s leadership, Liberia annexed Maryland, officially making it a Liberian county.
Expansion of Liberia’s Territory: Benson worked to expand Liberia’s control over coastal regions and interior lands, negotiating treaties with indigenous African leaders.
Economic Growth and Trade: He focused on improving Liberia’s economy, strengthening trade relationships with Europe and the United States, and promoting agriculture and exports like coffee, palm oil, and rubber.
Improved Indigenous Relations: Unlike previous leaders who maintained a divide between the settlers and native Africans, Benson sought to bridge the gap, encouraging cooperation and integration.
Education and Infrastructure Development: He supported the growth of education and the establishment of schools and roads to develop Liberia’s infrastructure.

Later Years and Death

After serving two terms (1856-1864), Benson stepped down and retired from politics. He remained an influential figure in Liberia until his death in 1865.

Legacy

Stephen Allen Benson is remembered as one of Liberia’s most effective early leaders. His diplomatic efforts, territorial expansion, and focus on economic development played a crucial role in strengthening the young republic. His policies laid the foundation for Liberia’s future growth and integration with the indigenous population.