Crerar, Thomas Alexander

Crerar, Thomas Alexander, 1876–1975, Canadian political leader. Under his able direction the United Grain Growers, Ltd., of which he was president (1907–29), became one of the most successful farmers' cooperative movements in W Canada. A Liberal, Crerar served (1917–19) as minister of agriculture in Sir Robert Borden's coalition cabinet; he resigned in protest against the government's high tariff policy. He was leader (1920–21) of the new National Progressive party and of the Progressives in the House of Commons, retiring in 1922 to private life. He reentered the political scene as minister of railways and canals (1929–30) in Mackenzie King's Liberal government and later served (1935–45) as minister of mines and resources in King's cabinet. In 1945, Crerar was appointed to the Canadian Senate, serving until 1966.