Henry Agard Wallace (1888–1965) was an influential American agricultural scientist, editor, and politician who served as the 33rd Vice President of the United States from 1941 to 1945 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt

. He was also the 11th U.S. Secretary of Agriculture (1933–1940) and the 10th U.S. Secretary of Commerce (1945–1946)

. Wallace was born in rural Iowa into a family deeply involved in agriculture and politics; his father was also Secretary of Agriculture. After graduating from Iowa State University in 1910, he became editor of Wallaces’ Farmer , a prominent farm journal founded by his family

. He was a pioneer in agricultural science, notably developing hybrid corn varieties through his Hi-Bred Corn Company, which significantly increased crop yields

. Politically, Wallace was a key figure in Roosevelt's New Deal, shaping major agricultural policies aimed at stabilizing farm prices, reducing surpluses, and alleviating rural poverty during the Great Depression. He co-created the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, a foundational farm bill

. As Vice President, he was more actively involved in government work than previous holders of the office, representing the U.S. in foreign affairs and advocating for peace, prosperity, and equality

. After losing the vice presidential nomination in 1944 to Harry Truman, Wallace briefly served as Secretary of Commerce. In 1948, he ran for president as the Progressive Party candidate, promoting progressive policies such as national health insurance and equal pay, though he received only about 2% of the vote

. Wallace was also known for his advocacy of international cooperation and humanitarian aid, especially through the United Nations, and for his commitment to social justice and equal rights

. He retired to farming and writing until his death in 1965 from Lou Gehrig’s disease

. In summary, Henry A. Wallace was a prominent New Deal-era leader, agricultural innovator, vice president, and progressive political figure who left a lasting impact on American agriculture and politics.