John Block, former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, recently published his book titled Pigs, Politics, Persistence: The Life and Legacy of John “Jack” Block.
Born and raised on a farm, Block’s early years were shaped by Future Farmers of America and a deep connection to rural life. Despite pursuing a military education at West Point and serving in the infantry with the 101st Airborne Division, he ultimately returned to his family farm when the opportunity arose.
“My dad offered me the chance to come back, so I did,” he said.
Over the next 16 years, he not only expanded his farm’s operations but also became heavily involved in agricultural organizations, including the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Illinois Corn Growers Association.
Block’s extensive network and leadership in agriculture led to his appointment as Illinois’ Director of Agriculture. His role in this position, along with his deep industry connections, set the stage for his next opportunity.
“I got an invitation to interview with President Reagan,” he said. “He had not been in office yet, but I went to California to meet with him.”
Following this meeting, Block was appointed as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture in 1981. After leaving the USDA in 1986, Block transitioned into private industry, leading the Wholesale Grocers Trade Association. Despite his shift into the private sector, Block never lost his connection to the world of farm policy and advocacy. He became a prominent voice in farm broadcasting, hosting a weekly program that provided insights into agriculture, policy, and market trends.
Block’s decision to write Pigs, Politics, and Persistence stemmed from a desire to document his journey for future generations.
“Even after I served as Secretary of Agriculture, I thought I would like to put something down and give it to my children and grandchildren,” he explained. “But I didn’t get it done right away. Finally, here I am, retired from most of these things, so it was time to get a book done.”
Collaborating with farm broadcaster and past NAFB President Colleen Callahan, he dedicated several years to compiling his experiences into a memoir that captures his unique perspective on farming, politics, and leadership.
“Colleen was a great help,” he noted. “With help from some others, mostly family and friends that I’d worked with in agriculture, we got it put together, and it’s done now.”
His book provides a firsthand account of his time in public office, detailing the decisions that shaped the agriculture industry, the struggles of working within government bureaucracy, and the personal sacrifices required to serve at the national level. It also offers a glimpse into the relationships he built along the way.
