Yuan Longping

About

Agriculturist known for pioneering rice hybrids in the 1970s. In doing so, he created a cushion against starvation and food insecurity in areas at risk for famine. 

Before Fame

In 1953, he graduated from Southwest University, which was then known as Southwest Agricultural College. 

Trivia

Four asteroids have been named after him, as well as a college in China. 

Family Life

He was born in Bejing, China as the second of six siblings. In 1964, he married Deng Zhe. The couple had two children. 

Associated With

Mao Tse Tung was the ruler of China when Longping was active in his field.