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“An Iconic Legend – Charles Peters, Washington Monthly Founder, Passes Away at 96

Charles Peters, the founder of Washington Monthly and an icon of American politics has passed away, leaving behind an impressive legacy. Peters, who was born on June 17, 1924, was a noted public servant, political reformer and magazine editor. He served in World War II as in the US Navy and began a career in politics after his return. He was a key advisor to president John F Kennedy on domestic affairs, served two terms as a Democratic National Committee and also was an aide to Hubert Humphrey. Peters served in various roles in American government, including Council Budget Officer for the President’s Office of Management and Budget, Special Assistant to the U.S. Secretary of Park, Office of People and Construction in the Department of Interior and, Assistant Director for Community Programs in the White House Office of Intergovernmental Relations. He is widely known for founding the Washington Monthly, a magazine he founded in 1969 in order to provide an invaluable source of in-depth reporting and analysis into the nation’s biggest political and social issues at the time, including the Vietnam War, Watergate and civil rights. Widely considered to be ahead of its time, the magazine was a source of vital information to anyone trying to understand the political climate and make sense of the key issues. Peters had a long and impressive career as a political commentator and figurehead and was an inspiration to his peers and those following his path. He was also an advocate for veterans, advocating for veterans suffering from PTSD and spearheading a campaign to provide veterans with free and reduced-price healthcare services. Outside of these accomplishments, Peters was an active philanthropist both here in the United States, across Latin America and in Africa. The Carter Center named him a Champion of Peace for his efforts. The legacy Peters leaves behind will be one of reform and dedication to the causes he was passionate about. He will be remembered for being an active political voice and a passionate advocate for social and political change at a pointed and turbulent point in American history. It is clear he will be missed, but the positive changes he helped create will surely endure.