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Where Did You Learn to Speak So Beautifully?” — Trump to Liberia’s President. Your Briefings, Sir?

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During a White House meeting with African leaders this week, President Donald Trump turned to Liberian President Joseph Boakai and remarked, “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” The comment, intended as a compliment, quickly drew attention—both for its tone and for what it revealed about the president’s awareness of Liberia’s unique history.

Liberia stands apart among African nations for its deep-rooted connection to the United States. Founded in the early 1800s by freed Black Americans, the country was established with the support of the American Colonization Society, which sought to resettle formerly enslaved and free Black people from the U.S. on Africa’s west coast. Over the course of the 19th century, thousands of African Americans made the journey, hoping to build a society free from the racial oppression they faced in the United States.

In 1847, Liberia declared its independence, becoming the first African republic to do so. Its constitution was modeled after that of the United States, and its capital, Monrovia, was named after President James Monroe, a key supporter of the colonization effort.

Since its founding, English has been Liberia’s official language—a legacy of its American roots. While more than two dozen indigenous languages are spoken across the country, English remains the language of government, education, and national identity.

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Liberia president Joseph Boakai left US President Donald Trump Right

President Trump’s question to President Boakai—who, like most Liberians, is a native English speaker—sparked reactions in both countries. Critics called the remark “condescending” and questioned whether the president had been adequately briefed on Liberia’s history before the meeting. Some saw it as evidence of a broader pattern of diplomatic gaffes, raising concerns about the level of preparation for high-level international engagements.
Liberia’s Foreign Minister, however, downplayed the incident, noting that the American influence on Liberian English is distinct and familiar, and that President Boakai was not offended by the comment.

Still, the episode serves as a reminder: in diplomacy, even a well-intended compliment can reveal gaps in understanding—and underscore the importance of knowing the history that binds nations together.

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