A Guide to the United States’ History of Recognition, Diplomatic, and Consular Relations, by Country, since 1776: Liberia
Summary
The United States recognized the Republic of Liberia on September 23, 1862, when the American Minister to England Charles F. Adams was empowered to conclude a treaty of commerce and navigation with the Republic of Liberia.
![](https://static.history.state.gov/countries/liberia-flag.jpg)
Recognition
U.S. Recognition of Liberia, 1862.
The United States recognized the Republic of Liberia on September 23, 1862, when the American Minister to England Charles F. Adams was empowered to conclude a treaty of commerce and navigation with the Republic of Liberia. The treaty was signed by Adams and the President of Liberia on October 25, 1862.
The state that became Liberia originated in 1822 when the American Colonization Society founded a settlement for freedmen and recaptured slaves. In 1847 the settlement constituted itself as a republic and subsequently was recognized by several European states.
Diplomatic Relations
Establishment of Diplomatic Relations and American Legation in Liberia, 1864.
Diplomatic relations and the American Legation at Monrovia were established on February 23, 1864, when American Commissioner and Consul General Abraham Hanson presented his credentials to the Liberian government.
Elevation of Legation to Embassy Status, 1949.
The American Legation at Monrovia was elevated to Embassy status on May 6, 1949, when Ambassador Edward R. Dudley presented his credentials to the Liberian government.