Stephen Allen Benson


Stephen Allen Benson was a Liberian politician who served as the second president of Liberia from 1856 to 1864. He previously served as the third vice president of Liberia from 1854 to 1856 under President Joseph Jenkins Roberts. Born in the United States, Benson arrived in Liberia with his family in 1822.

Early life

Benson was born in Cambridge, Maryland, United States, to freeborn African-American parents. In 1822, his family emigrated to the newly established country of Liberia, sailing aboard the brig Strong.
For four years, he was a military shopkeeper. He was also a private secretary to Thomas Buchanan, the last of Liberia's white governors. Benson later became a successful businessman, and joined the militia in 1835. In 1841, Benson married Nancy Moore. In 1842, he became a delegate to the Colonial Council. After Liberia's independence in 1847, he became a judge. He was also a Methodist preacher, and the Secretary of the Treasury before becoming president.

Presidency (1856–64)

In 1853, Benson became the vice president under Joseph Jenkins Roberts, serving in that capacity until winning the presidency in the 1855 elections, taking office the following year.

Foreign relations

Benson obtained diplomatic recognition for Liberia from Belgium in 1858, Denmark in 1860, the United States and Italy in 1862, Norway and Sweden in 1863, and Haiti in 1864.

Expansion

In 1857, Benson organized the annexation of the Republic of Maryland. By 1860, through treaties and purchases with local African leaders, Liberia had extended its boundaries to include a 600-mile coastline.

Retirement

After the end of his presidency, Benson retired to his coffee plantation in Grand Bassa County where he died in 1865.

Legacy

Benson is commemorated in the scientific name of a species of lizard, Trachylepis bensonii, which is endemic to Liberia.