Joseph Johnson (South Carolina mayor)

Joseph Johnson (1776 – 1862) was an American physician and politician who served as the 48th Mayor of Charleston, South Carolina, holding the position from 1831 to 1835. He was born in Charleston and graduated from the College of Charleston. After studying medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, he returned to Charleston and established a successful medical practice.

Beyond his mayoral duties, Johnson was a prominent figure in South Carolina society. He was actively involved in civic affairs and contributed significantly to the development of Charleston's infrastructure and public institutions. His tenure as mayor coincided with the Nullification Crisis, a period of intense political tension between South Carolina and the federal government. While Johnson personally opposed nullification, he navigated the difficult situation with prudence, seeking to maintain order and prevent violence within the city.

Following his time as mayor, Johnson continued to practice medicine and remained involved in public life. He authored a multi-volume history of Charleston, titled "Traditions and Reminiscences, Chiefly of the American Revolution in the South," published in 1851, which remains a valuable historical resource. He died in Charleston in 1862.