“W” is for West, John Carl (1922-2004). Governor, diplomat. A native of Camden, West graduated from the Citadel in 1942 and served in the army during World War II. He practiced law in Camden. Elected to the S.C. Senate in 1954, he represented Kershaw County until 1966 when he was elected lieutenant governor. In 1970 West won a hard-fought race for the governorship. Among the accomplishments of his administration were the passage of mandatory automobile insurance for all drivers and the creation of the Coastal Zone Planning and Management council and the Commission on Human Relations. After leaving office, West returned to his law practice. In 1977 President Carter appointed West as ambassador to Saudi Arabia, a key diplomatic post. John Carl West served as ambassador for four years, then retired to private life in Camden.
“W” is for West, John Carl (1922-2004)
