Author(s): Zoey Slaughter
Mentor(s): Mary Jane Woodger
Institution BYU
As Secretary of Agriculture and a trusted member of agricultural communities across the nation, Ezra Taft Benson's influence on America was largely impactful and important, especially regarding his efforts to increase international farm trade. His policies led to increased efficiency within agricultural programs and farms across the nation and the globe. Ezra Taft Benson's character was constantly on display and largely influenced America's perception of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Although throughout his time as Secretary of Agriculture he was constantly under attack, he adhered to the principles he knew to work, and greatly improved the issues of surpluses and price supports across the country. Ezra Taft Benson remained steadfast in what he believed to be right and contributed to America's success. Most of his life was spent with little regard to his own comfort, as he worked tirelessly to bring about what he believed to be the good for farmers, American citizens, and Latter-day Saints throughout the world.