217 - Ezra Taft Benson: His Life in Washington D.C. I Religion & Politics I Church History Matters

Discover the remarkable double life of Ezra Taft Benson—a man who simultaneously served as a high-ranking Washington statesman and a chosen Apostle of the Lord.In this video, we dive deep into the chaotic, inspiring, and historic eight years (1953–1961) Ezra Taft Benson spent serving as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Dwight D. Eisenhower. As an LDS Apostle, Benson brought an unwavering moral compass to Washington, but his strict free-market principles made him one of the most controversial political figures of the 1950s.From hanging in effigy by furious farmers to a historic, miraculous television broadcast that changed the nation's heart, we explore the jaw-dropping events that defined his tenure. The Prophet's Call: How President Eisenhower convinced a reluctant LDS Apostle to join his cabinet, and the unique condition Benson demanded before accepting.The Battle of the Barnyard: Why Benson’s fight to eliminate government price supports made him the target of intense political crossfire and protests. The Miracle of the 'Edward R. Murrow' Broadcast: The behind-the-scenes story of the 1954 See It Now television special that saved Benson's career overnight.Apostle to the Soviet Union: The emotional, historic 1959 visit to the Central Baptist Church in Moscow where Benson preached freedom and faith behind the Iron Curtain.The Spiritual Statesman: How his eight years in Babylon prepared him to eventually become the 13th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.