Claude R. Wickard

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Claude R. Wickard, 12th Secretary of Agriculture, September 1940 - June 1945. - Flickr - USDAgov

Claude Raymond Wickard (February 28, 1893 – April 29, 1967) was an American agricultural policy maker and politician who served as the United States Secretary of Agriculture under President Franklin D. Roosevelt from 1940 to 1945. He played a significant role in the administration's efforts to combat the Great Depression and was instrumental in implementing New Deal policies, particularly those related to agriculture.

Early Life and Education

Claude R. Wickard was born in Carroll County, Indiana, to a family deeply involved in farming. He pursued higher education at Purdue University, where he earned a degree in agriculture in 1915. His academic background and personal experience on the farm equipped him with a deep understanding of agricultural issues, which would later inform his policy decisions.

Career

Wickard's career in public service began in the Indiana state agricultural extension service, where he worked to improve farming techniques and the livelihoods of Indiana farmers. His success in this role led to his election as a state senator in Indiana, where he continued to advocate for agricultural interests.

In 1933, Wickard was appointed as an administrator in the Agricultural Adjustment Administration (AAA), a New Deal agency tasked with reducing crop surplus and effectively raising the value of crops. His work in the AAA demonstrated his commitment to supporting the agricultural sector during the economic hardships of the 1930s.

Wickard's expertise and dedication to agricultural issues culminated in his appointment as the Secretary of Agriculture in 1940. During his tenure, he was responsible for overseeing the transition of American agriculture from a peacetime to a wartime footing, ensuring that food production met both domestic and military needs during World War II. He was also involved in the creation and implementation of policies aimed at stabilizing food prices and preventing shortages.

World War II and Later Career

Under Wickard's leadership, the Department of Agriculture implemented rationing programs and price controls to manage the supply of essential commodities. He also played a key role in the development of the Lend-Lease program, which supplied allies with food and agricultural products.

After leaving the Department of Agriculture in 1945, Wickard served briefly as the United States Under Secretary of Agriculture before being appointed as the first Administrator of the Rural Electrification Administration (REA), where he worked to bring electricity to rural areas of the United States, significantly improving the quality of life for millions of Americans.

Death and Legacy

Claude R. Wickard died on April 29, 1967. His contributions to American agriculture and his efforts during World War II left a lasting impact on the nation's food policy and rural development. He is remembered as a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of American farmers and to ensure the nation's food security during one of its most challenging periods.

See Also

• New Deal
• Agricultural Adjustment Administration
• Rural Electrification Administration

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