Cesar Chavez was born in Yuma, Arizona in 1927. His family were migrant farm workers who moved from place to place picking crops. The family faced discrimination and poverty, which had a profound impact on Chavez.
He dropped out of school in the seventh grade to help his family pick crops, but he continued to educate himself through reading and attending union meetings. Chavez became involved in the Community Service Organization (CSO) in the 1950s, which aimed to improve conditions for Mexican-Americans and other minorities.
In 1962, Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA), which later became the United Farm Workers (UFW). The UFW's primary goal was to secure better wages and working conditions for farm workers, who were often subjected to low pay, unsafe working conditions, and other forms of exploitation.
Chavez used non-violent methods to achieve his goals, such as boycotts, strikes, and hunger strikes. He also became known for his tireless work ethic and his dedication to the cause. The UFW had some early successes, such as convincing employers to provide clean drinking water and toilets for workers.
In 1965, the UFW launched the Delano grape strike, which drew national attention to the plight of farm workers. The strike lasted five years and involved grape boycotts, picketing, and other forms of protest. The UFW eventually won higher wages and better working conditions for grape workers.
Chavez continued to fight for farm workers' rights until his death in 1993. His legacy inspired many other labor and civil rights leaders in the United States and around the world.