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Bob Bergland
Robert Bergland - USDA portrait.jpg
20th United States Secretary of Agriculture
In office
January 23, 1977 – January 20, 1981
President Jimmy Carter
Preceded by John A. Knebel
Succeeded by John R. Block
Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Minnesota's 7th district
In office
January 3, 1971 – January 22, 1977
Preceded by Odin Langen
Succeeded by Arlan Stangeland
Personal details
Born (1928-07-22)July 22, 1928
Roseau, Minnesota, U.S.
Died December 9, 2018(2018-12-09) (aged 90)
Roseau, Minnesota, U.S.
Political party Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party
Spouse Helen Bergland
Children Dianne Leigh Bergland
Linda Kay Bergland
Stevan Ray Bergland
Jon Lynn Bergland
Allan Robert Bergland
William Joseph "Billy" Bergland
Franklyn Felix Bergland
Parents Selmer Bennett Bergland
Mabel Evans Bergland
Alma mater University of Minnesota
Profession Politician

Robert Selmer "Bob" Bergland (born July 22, 1928 – died December 9, 2018) was an American politician. A politician is someone who works in government. Bob Bergland helped make important decisions for the country.

He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota from 1971 to 1977. Later, he became the Secretary of Agriculture from 1977 to 1981. He worked with President Jimmy Carter during this time.

Who Was Bob Bergland?

Bob Bergland was born in Roseau, Minnesota, on July 22, 1928. He grew up in a farming community. This background helped him understand the needs of farmers.

He went to the University of Minnesota. This is where he studied and learned many things. His education helped prepare him for his future roles.

Bob's Time in Congress

From 1971 to 1977, Bob Bergland served in the U.S. House of Representatives. He represented Minnesota's 7th congressional district. This means he was the voice for people in that part of Minnesota.

In Congress, he worked on laws that affected many Americans. He focused on issues important to his home state. These issues often involved farming and rural life.

Leading Agriculture in the U.S.

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter chose Bob Bergland to be the Secretary of Agriculture. This was a very important job. The Secretary of Agriculture leads the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The USDA helps farmers and makes sure people have safe food. Bob Bergland worked to support farmers and manage food programs. He helped shape policies that affected farming across the country.

What the Secretary of Agriculture Does

The Secretary of Agriculture has many responsibilities. They work to protect farmland and natural resources. They also help farmers get fair prices for their crops.

Another key part of the job is ensuring food safety. The USDA helps make sure the food you eat is healthy and safe. Bob Bergland worked on these important tasks during his time as Secretary.

Later Life and Legacy

After his time as Secretary of Agriculture, Bob Bergland continued to be involved in public life. He remained a respected figure in politics. He was known for his dedication to public service.

Bob Bergland passed away on December 9, 2018. He was 90 years old. He died in a nursing home in his hometown of Roseau, Minnesota. His work helped shape agricultural policies in the United States.

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