Born in Yuma, Arizona in 1927, Chavez was the second of six children. His father prospered as a farmer and owner of a general store. The Great Depression forced the Chavez family to join the migrant farm population in California in 1938.

After returning from his tour of duty with the Navy in 1948, Chavez joined the local Community Service Organization to increase voter registration among migrant workers. He worked during the daytime as an apricot picker.

In 1962, feeling that voter registration was not enough, Chavez split with the CSO and formed the United Farm Workers Union. In 1965, their first strike against grape growers was waged.

By the late 60's, Chavez and the United Farm Workers Union had gained national prominence. Religious and political figures such as Robert F. Kennedy joined Chavez in his protests, which culminated in the 1975 California Labor Relations Act.

Mr. Chavez died in 1993. He not only brought the plight of farm workers to the forefront of national politics, but his actions helped set the stage for future generations of Latinos.