Barbara M. Watson

Barbara M. Watson
A black and white photograph of Barbara M. Watson, a Black woman, smiling, holding an award plaque. She is wearing a dark business suit and pearls. She is standing in front of a china cabinet.
Barbara M. Watson, receiving an award, from a 1975 publication of the U.S. State Department.
5th Assistant Secretary of State for Security and Consular Affairs
In office
August 12, 1968 – December 31, 1974
Preceded byAbba P. Schwartz
Succeeded byLeonard F. Walentynowicz
7th Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs
In office
April 13, 1977 – August 17, 1980
Preceded byLeonard F. Walentynowicz
Succeeded byDiego C. Asencio
Personal details
BornNovember 5, 1918
New York City
DiedFebruary 18, 1983
Washington, D.C.
NationalityAmerican
RelationsJames Lopez Watson (brother)
J. Bruce Llewellyn (cousin)
Colin Powell (cousin)
Parent(s)James S. Watson, Violet Lopez Watson
Alma materBarnard College

Barbara Mae Watson (November 5, 1918 – February 18, 1983) was a lawyer, United States diplomat, Ambassador to Malaysia, and the first Black person and the first woman to serve as an Assistant Secretary of State.