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This Day in American History

March 31

1 historic event on this date

Movement1927

Cesar Chavez Born

Cesar Chavez was born near Yuma, Arizona. He became the most prominent Latino civil rights activist in American history, co-founding the United Farm Workers union and leading nonviolent campaigns including strikes, boycotts, and fasts to secure better conditions for agricultural laborers.

Why It Matters

Chavez's work expanded the promise of American labor rights to some of the nation's most marginalized workers and demonstrated that civic activism rooted in nonviolent principles could achieve lasting economic and social change.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles