Ralph Bunche was a prominent international civil servant. After serving in the United States government, he became involved in the early history of the UN and held several high-level positions under the first three Secretaries-General.
He participated in the San Francisco Conference, served on the Preparatory Commission for the UN, and worked as Under-Secretary-General for the United Nations from 1946-1971.
He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950 for his work as mediator in the Middle East.
He served in several roles in the UN and is especially known for his work in the following areas:
- Middle East Armistice, 1948-1949
- Suez crisis and the establishment of UNEF, 1956
- Congo, 1960
- Trusteeship, 1945-1971
His papers are held by UCLA and the UN Archives. Many books and articles have explored his work and legacy.
The "character sketch" by Sir Brian Urquhart provides an interesting overview of some highlights from Dr. Bunche's life from the perspective of a UN insider who worked very closely with him.
Links & Files
- Nobel Prize website biography of Ralph Bunche Opens in new window
- UN Photo search for Ralph Bunche Opens in new window
- UN Archives search for Bunche Opens in new window
- UCLA Ralph J. Bunche Center Opens in new window
- UCLA Library: Centenary Celebration of Ralph Bunche Opens in new window
- PBS documentary: Ralph Bunche An American Odyssey Opens in new window
- UN Radio 1962 interview with Ralph Bunche Opens in new window
- “The Absolutely Indispensable Man”: Ralph Bunche and the UN’s first special political mission Opens in new window
- Absolutely Indispensable Man, by Kal Raustiala: ebook access for UNHQ users Opens in new window
- "United Nations Peacemaker: Ralph Bunche" comic posted on non-UN website Opens in new window
- Ralph Bunche Character Sketch by Brian Urquhart : UN News Opens in new window
- Durban +20 sketches website include profile of Ralph Bunche Opens in new window
