Farming Biographies

1. Norman Borlaug

Norman Borlaug (1914–2009) was an American agronomist and humanitarian who played a vital role in the Green Revolution. His work in developing high-yielding, disease-resistant wheat varieties helped alleviate hunger in many parts of the world.

2. Masanobu Fukuoka

Masanobu Fukuoka (1913–2008) was a Japanese farmer and philosopher known for his natural farming and permaculture techniques. His book "One Straw Revolution" advocated for minimalist and sustainable farming practices.

3. Vandana Shiva

Vandana Shiva is an Indian environmental activist and author. She has campaigned for the preservation of traditional agricultural practices, biodiversity, and the rights of small farmers.

4. Joel Salatin

Joel Salatin is an American farmer and author known for his innovative and sustainable farming practices. He operates Polyface Farms, which emphasizes rotational grazing and holistic management.

5. Wangari Maathai

Wangari Maathai (1940–2011) was a Kenyan environmental and political activist. She founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental organization that focused on tree planting and women's empowerment.

6. Eliot Coleman

Eliot Coleman is an American farmer and author known for his work in organic and small-scale farming. His book "The New Organic Grower" is a widely respected resource for organic farming techniques.

7. Will Allen

Will Allen is an urban farmer and founder of Growing Power, an organization that promotes sustainable urban agriculture. He has been a pioneer in bringing fresh produce to underserved urban communities.

8. Frances Moore Lappé

Frances Moore Lappé is an American author and advocate known for her work on food policy and hunger. Her book "Diet for a Small Planet" highlighted the environmental impact of meat consumption.

9. Rudolf Steiner

Rudolf Steiner (1861–1925) was an Austrian philosopher, educator, and founder of biodynamic farming. His holistic approach to agriculture integrates spiritual and ecological principles.

10. Fazlur Rahman Khan

Fazlur Rahman Khan (1929–1982) was a Bangladeshi-American structural engineer and architect. While not a farmer, his innovations in architecture, including the design of skyscrapers, have influenced urban farming practices by maximizing space efficiency.