WASHINGTON, Sept. 14 - Bread for the World today mourned the passing of Norman Ernest Borlaug Saturday night, citing him as an outstanding individual who has done more to save people from hunger and starvation than any other person in modern history.
"No single person has contributed more to relieving world hunger than our friend, the late Norman Borlaug," said Rev. David Beckmann, president, Bread for the World. "Norman was truly the man who fed the world, saving up to a billion people from hunger and starvation."
Borlaug was one of the early trustees of Bread for the World, serving from 1975 through 1980. He is considered the father of the Green Revolution. As a plant pathologist, he introduced high-yielding wheat varieties and modern agricultural techniques to Mexico, Pakistan, and India. Mexico became a net exporter of wheat, while wheat yields doubled in Pakistan and India.
"Dr. Borlaug was an advocate as well as a scientist. He convinced many political leaders to do their part in reducing hunger," said Rev. Beckmann, who will officiate during Borlaug's memorial service in Dallas. He warned, however, that recent increases in food prices throughout the world, coupled with the global recession, have set back the progress that has been achieved in the fight against hunger. Today, one out of every six people goes to bed hungry.
"President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton are launching a global initiative to strengthen agriculture and reduce hunger in poor countries. The U.S. led world hunger initiative is the tribute Dr. Borlaug would most appreciate," added Rev. Beckmann.
Borlaug was one of only five people to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Gold Medal.
He was born March 25, 1914 in a farm in Cresco, IA. Borlaug was 95 years old.
Bread for the World (www.bread.org) is a collective Christian voice urging our nation's decision makers to end hunger at home and abroad.
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