Monrovia, the capital of the African state of Liberia, is named after James Monroe. In fact, the city is named in honor of President Monroe because he supported the plan of relocating freed American slaves back to Africa.
The U.S. President James Monroe was born on this day in 1758. He was the fifth President of the United States, after James Madison, and before John Quincy Adams. Marilyn Monroe is possibly more familiar to the American people than the President Monroe, who had lived about a century and a half before her. Most probably, they were not relatives. In fact, Marilyn Monroe was actually her stage name. She was born as Norma Jeane Mortenson (she changed her name to Norma Jeane Baker). However, her mother’s maiden name was Monroe (so she selected the mentioned stage name). Otherwise, Monroe is a Scottish surname, probably with Celtic roots.
James Monroe was the last American president who wore a powdered wig, tricorne, and breeches with long socks. That was the fashion of the 18th century, which largely began to die out during the French Revolution. Before the revolution, men wore breeches and long socks. Long pants have been used since the Revolution, and the wig is out of use.
There are no photos of James Monroe (he died before the broader use of cameras). It is particularly interesting that Monrovia, the capital of the African state of Liberia, is named after him. In fact, the city is named in his honor because he supported the plan of relocating freed slaves back to Africa (the basis of the state of Liberia).
