Magnus Lewis Robinson

Magnus Lewis Robinson (1852–1918) was an American newspaper editor, politician, and Black community leader. He was the managing editor, and co-owner of The Washington National Leader newspaper, which he founded with his brother. Robinson was active within the Republican Party in Virginia and Washington, D.C.; as well as Masonic organizations.

Early life and education Magnus Lewis Robinson was born on November 21, 1852, in Alexandria, Virginia. His father was Robert H. Robinson, a noted minister and Black rights activist; and his mother was Mary Ann Warwick. His paternal grandmother was Caroline Branham, a slave at Mount Vernon the plantation estate of President George Washington. He was educated privately. In his early career, Robinson contributed to newspapers, including The Baltimore Sun, Baltimore American, and The Lynchburg Daily News.

In 1880, Robinson became the secretary of the Republican Committee of Rockingham County, Virginia, and he was the first African American in the role.

Death and legacy He died on August 17, 1918, in Washington, D.C., and he is buried at Bethel Cemetery in Alexandria.