Ezra Taft Benson was a prominent leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served as the 13th president of the church from 1985 until his death in 1994. He was known for his strong advocacy of the principles of freedom and individual agency, which he believed were fundamental to God's plan for humanity. Benson emphasized the importance of education, self-reliance, and service to others, often speaking about the dangers of socialism and emphasizing a return to constitutional principles. Throughout his life, Benson held various important positions, including serving as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Dwight D. Eisenhower from 1953 to 1961. He used this platform to promote agricultural policies that enhanced food production and supported American farmers. His experiences in government significantly influenced his later teachings in the church, particularly regarding economic freedom and the role of government. Benson was also a prolific author and speaker, producing numerous writings that articulated his beliefs and views on faith, family, and civic responsibility. His messages continue to inspire many within the church and beyond, as he articulated a vision of life that combined deep spiritual commitment with active civic engagement. Ezra Taft Benson was born on August 4, 1899, in Whitney, Idaho. He grew up in a devout Latter-day Saint family, which greatly influenced his faith and future leadership roles. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to the principles of his faith and worked tirelessly to spread its teachings. During his presidency of the LDS Church, Benson focused on instilling strong moral values in individuals and families. He emphasized the teachings of Jesus Christ and called for church members to be actively involved in their communities and to uphold righteousness in all aspects of life. In addition to his church leadership, Benson’s influence extended into the broader community through his writings and speeches. His commitment to promoting freedom, agency, and the gospel left a lasting impact on the church and many of its followers, making him a respected figure in both religious and public spheres.