Liberia Civic historical record
Liberia held a contested general election in May 1899 during William David Coleman’s presidency.
Presidential result
Incumbent President William D. Coleman of the True Whig Party defeated Anthony D. Williams Jr., the presidential candidate of the National Union Party.
Vice-presidential contest
The True Whig Party initially selected F. E. R. Johnson for vice president, but he declined the nomination. Joseph J. Ross was then endorsed for vice president by both major parties. Ross died in October 1899, leaving the office vacant before Coleman’s new term began.
Historical significance
Coleman’s victory secured another full term, but he resigned the presidency in December 1900. With the vice presidency vacant, Secretary of State Garretson W. Gibson succeeded him.
Evidence status
Classification: Candidates, ticket history, and winner documented; numerical returns unavailable. The month, candidates, parties, outcome, and vice-presidential nomination history are documented. Vote totals, percentages, registration, turnout, invalid ballots, and legislative results remain under archival review.
Sources
- African Elections Database, Liberia historical election results
- D. Elwood Dunn, Liberian presidential succession history
- The Philadelphia Inquirer, “Liberia’s Election,” 5 June 1899.