Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Trailblazers in Black History: Joseph Jenkins Roberts


Joseph Jenkins Roberts was the first (1848-1856) and seventh (1872-1876) President of Liberia. 

Born free in Norfolk, Virginia, Roberts emigrated to Liberia in 1829 as a young man. He opened a trading store in Monrovia and later engaged in politics. 

When Liberia became independent in July 26, 1847, Roberts was elected the first Black American president for the Republic of Liberia. 

Additional information is available here

Source: Wikipedia

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