1899 - 1994
Ezra Taft Benson was an American religious leader and politician, best known as a prominent member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1953 to 1961. He served as the thirteenth president of the LDS Church from 1985 until his death in 1994 and was influential in promoting the church's teachings on self-reliance, stewardship, and the importance of family values. Benson is also recognized for his extensive writings and speeches on faith and politics.