Perry H. Carson (April 22, 1848 – October 1, 1916) was an African‑American journalist, newspaper editor, and political activist based in Washington, D.C. He is most noted for his long tenure as publisher and editor of The Washington Bee, an influential African‑American weekly newspaper that operated from 1882 to 1922. Carson was a prominent leader within the Republican Party in the District of Columbia, serving as a delegate to multiple Republican National Conventions and advocating for civil‑rights legislation and African‑American political participation.
Early life and education
Carson was born in Washington, D.C., to free Black parents. Details of his early education are limited, but he later became involved in civic affairs and journalism.
Career in journalism
In 1882 Carson assumed control of The Washington Bee, which under his direction became a leading voice for the Black community in the capital. The newspaper covered national and local politics, civil‑rights issues, and cultural affairs, and it regularly endorsed Republican candidates. Carson used the paper to argue for voting rights, equal education, and anti‑lynching measures.
Political activity
A staunch Republican, Carson served as a delegate to the Republican National Conventions of 1892, 1896, 1900, and 1904. He held several appointed positions in the District, including membership on the Board of Trustees of Howard University and service on the D.C. Board of Education. Through these roles, he worked to improve public education for African‑American children and to secure federal patronage jobs for Black Washingtonians.
Civil‑rights advocacy
Carson was active in numerous civil‑rights organizations. He participated in the National Afro‑American Council and frequently testified before Congressional committees on matters affecting African‑American citizens. He campaigned against segregationist policies and urged the federal government to enforce the 14th and 15th Amendments.
Later life and legacy
Carson remained editor of The Washington Bee until his death in 1916. The newspaper continued publication for several years after his passing. Historians regard Carson as a significant figure in the development of Black political leadership in Washington, D.C., and as an exemplar of African‑American press activism during the post‑Reconstruction era. His work contributed to the broader struggle for civil rights that culminated in the mid‑20th‑century movement.
