Arthur Cyprian Harper

Arthur Cyprian Harper (1866–1948) was an American banker who served as the 26th Mayor of Los Angeles, California, from December 13, 1906, to March 11, 1909. He was forced to resign in the wake of a recall drive due to dishonesty that marked his administration. While mayor, he began work on the Los Angeles Civic Center.

Arthur Cyprian Harper
Mayor Arthur C. Harper in office
26th Mayor of Los Angeles
In office December 13, 1906 – March 11, 1909
Preceded by	Owen McAleer
Succeeded by	William Stephens
Personal details
Born	1866 Columbus, Mississippi
Died	December 25, 1948 Palmdale, California
Political party	Democrat

Biography

A native of Columbus, Mississippi, Harper was the son of a wealthy businessman.^[1][2] He was bank teller that had a predilection for drinking, gambling, and frequenting brothels before becoming Mayor.^[2]

Harper was elected Mayor in 1906 and briefly had a honeymoon period with the Los Angeles Herald, saying his first year was the "most satisfactory twelve months in Los Angeles history."^[2] His administration was corrupt, with the Oil and Railroad industry controlling the city through bribes and payoffs.^[2] The city government also took protection money from brothels, casinos, and saloons.^[3] The Herald exposed the corruption after they uncovered a $25 million payout to Harper for the building of the Los Angeles Aqueduct.^[2] The Herald called his corruption "his dishonor" in a series of articles entitled "Is Vice Protected in Los Angeles?"^[2][3]

The public turned on Harper and started the first recall movement in American history, collecting 25,000 signatures in support.^[2][3] He decided to resign instead of facing a recall election.^[3]

Harper died in Palmdale, California, on December 25, 1948.^[1] He was buried at Angelus-Rosedale Cemetery in Central Los Angeles.