The world has lost a monumental figure in the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Reflecting on his incredible legacy, I am drawn to the enduring partnership between President Carter and my grandfather, Norman Borlaug. These two visionaries combined their dedication, ingenuity, and compassion to combat one of humanity’s most significant challenges: hunger.
Norman Borlaug, often called the Father of the Green Revolution, devoted his life to improving agricultural productivity and bringing modern farming practices to developing countries. President Carter became a champion for ending hunger and poverty with his deep commitment to human rights and his post-presidency focus on global health and development.
Their collaboration wasn’t just about science or politics but humanity. Their partnership was rooted in a shared belief that no one should go hungry in a world of abundance.
In the 1980s and 1990s, when famine ravaged parts of Africa, my grandfather worked tirelessly to bring new wheat and rice varieties to regions where traditional crops failed. President Carter provided critical support through the Carter Center, mobilized resources, and displayed political will to ensure these innovations reached the most needed people. Together, they proved that food insecurity was not an inevitable consequence of geography or poverty—it was a solvable problem.
One of their most notable collaborations occurred in Africa, where they focused on improving agricultural practices in some of the most challenging environments.
My grandfather’s scientific breakthroughs in plant genetics provided drought-resistant and high-yield crops. At the same time, President Carter’s leadership ensured that the infrastructure, training, and political stability necessary for sustainable agriculture were implemented. The Carter's dedication to alleviating hunger complemented my grandfather’s mission, creating a partnership that turned hope into tangible results.
However, their partnership went beyond technical solutions. It was about empowering people. President Carter and my grandfather believed that the accurate measure of success wasn’t in the number of fields planted or bushels harvested but in the lives transformed. Farmers who could now feed their families, communities that became self-sufficient, and children who no longer went to bed hungry were their most significant achievements.
President Carter often spoke about the moral imperative to act, once saying, “The bond of our common humanity is stronger than the divisiveness of our fears and prejudices.” My grandfather shared this belief, reminding the world that “you can’t build a peaceful world on empty stomachs and human misery.” Together, they demonstrated that science, policy, and compassion are a powerful trio in the fight against hunger.
As we celebrate President Carter’s life, let us remember his political achievements and honor the partnerships that exemplified his post-presidency work. His collaboration with my grandfather is a testament to what is possible when individuals unite to address the world’s most pressing challenges, regardless of their backgrounds.
Today, the fight against hunger is far from over. Climate change, conflict, and inequality continue to threaten food security for millions. Yet, the legacy of President Carter and Norman Borlaug reminds us that progress is possible. Their partnership proves we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles by combining innovation with compassion and action with determination.
As I think about the shared legacy of these two extraordinary men, I am filled with both pride and responsibility. Pride in the work they accomplished together and the lives they changed, and an obligation to carry their mission forward. It is up to all of us to continue their work and ensure that every person has access to the most basic human rights: food.
Thank you, President Carter, for your unwavering belief in humanity and partnership with my grandfather. The seeds you both planted—literally and figuratively—continue to grow, feeding both bodies and spirits worldwide. Your legacy will endure in the annals of history and the fields and hearts of those whose lives you touched.
Rest in peace, and thank you for showing us what it means to lead with purpose, humility, and hope.
Julie Borlaug is the granddaughter of Norman Borlaug.