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Hilary Richard Wright JohnsonEleventh President of Liberia (1884-1892)
Date of Birth: 01.06.1837
Country:  Liberia |
Content:
- Early Life and Family
- Presidency of Liberia
- Focus on Territorial Integrity
- Dispute with France
- Railway Project (1892)
- Death and Legacy
Early Life and Family
Born in 1837, Hilary Richard Wright Johnson came from a prestigious family, with his father being the renowned Elija Johnson.
Presidency of Liberia
Election and Inauguration (1884)In March 1883, Johnson was elected President of the Republic of Liberia with an overwhelming majority. He was the first president to be born in Liberia.
Focus on Territorial Integrity
During his presidency, Johnson prioritized safeguarding Liberia's territorial integrity. However, negotiations with Great Britain over western territories resulted in significant losses.
Dispute with France
Subsequently, a new challenge arose as France demanded territory on the other side of the Cavalla River, further straining Liberia's borders.
Railway Project (1892)
In his final term, Johnson pursued a £500,000 grant from Great Britain for the development of railways, telegraph, and telephone lines. However, the project was abandoned when the signing representative, Frank Wittiken, passed away en route.
Death and Legacy
Hilary Richard Wright Johnson passed away in 1901. He served as President of Liberia for four terms, making him the only person to hold that office for such an extended period in Liberia's history.
