Washington Monthly founder Charles Peters passed away at the age of 96 on Tuesday. He was remembered as a “brilliant journalist, wise political analyst, and passionate advocate for social progress.”
Peters founded the Washington Monthly in 1969 and served as its editor in chief for 26 years. He helped shape its unique and influential role in American politics and policy analysis, in part by introducing what came to be known as the “New Journalism,” featuring personal and narrative-based accounts of political personalities and trends in Washington.
Peters also worked as a political adviser for the Department of Defense, as an assistant to the Chief of the Peace Corps, and was a vocal advocate for progressive causes. He was also a prolific book author and book reviewer, a passionate civil rights activist, and an ardent proponent of fiscal responsibility.
Peters received numerous awards and recognition for his life-long dedication to journalism, policy analysis, and progressive causes, most notably an Emmy, a John F. Kennedy Award for Excellence in Journalism, and the prestigious National Humanities Medal given by President Obama in 2011.
His untimely passing will be mourned by many in the journalism and policy community. His powerful legacy—the unique contribution he made to American politics and policy analysis—will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
