The 43rd Governor of Michigan was a prominent businessman and politician who played a significant role in shaping the state's economy and politics. He's most known for his innovative leadership and advocacy for civil rights.
George W. Romney is best known for his innovative leadership in the automotive industry and his subsequent venture into politics, serving as the 43rd governor of Michigan and 3rd secretary of Housing and Urban Development. He is also remembered as the father of Mitt Romney, a prominent American politician.
Born on July 8, 1907, in the Mormon colonies in Mexico, Romney's family was forced to flee back to the United States due to the Mexican Revolution. He grew up in several states, eventually settling in Salt Lake City, Utah, where his family struggled during the Great Depression.
Romney worked in various jobs, served as a Mormon missionary in the United Kingdom, and attended several colleges in the United States. In 1939, he moved to Detroit and joined the American Automobile Manufacturers Association, where he served as the chief spokesman for the automobile industry during World War II. He headed a cooperative arrangement in which companies could share production improvements, a pioneering concept at the time.
In 1948, Romney joined Nash-Kelvinator Corporation, which later merged with Hudson Motor Car Company to form American Motors Corporation. He became the chief executive of American Motors in 1954, turning around the struggling firm by focusing on the compact Rambler car. Romney's innovative approach and media savvy made him one of the first high-profile business executives, earning him the nickname "Mr. Rambler."
Romney entered politics in 1961, participating in a state constitutional convention to rewrite the Michigan Constitution. He was elected as the 43rd governor of Michigan in 1963, serving two terms until 1969. During his tenure, he focused on issues like education, healthcare, and civil rights. In 1969, he was appointed as the 3rd secretary of Housing and Urban Development by President Richard Nixon, a position he held until 1973.
Romney was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and presided over the Detroit stake of the Church. He was married to Lenore Romney, a 1970 U.S. Senate candidate, and had four children, including Mitt Romney. George W. Romney passed away on July 26, 1995, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, innovation, and public service.
Romney was known for his witty remarks and insightful quotes, including:
Romney's innovative approach to business and politics has had a lasting impact on modern society. His focus on compact cars and fuel efficiency paved the way for the development of more environmentally friendly vehicles. His commitment to public service and civil rights has inspired generations of politicians and activists.
George W. Romney's legacy extends beyond his accomplishments in business and politics. He played a significant role in shaping the course of American history, from his early days as a Mormon missionary to his later years as a statesman. Romney's life and work serve as a testament to the power of innovation, hard work, and public service.
77 Years Old
The 70th Governor of Massachusetts is a prominent Republican politician and businessman who served as the GOP's 2012 presidential nominee, known for his moderate stance and Mormon faith.
Born in 1908
A wealthy businessman and politician who served as Vice President under Gerald Ford, known for his moderate Republican views and influential role in shaping US foreign policy.
Born in 1913
The 38th President of the United States, a former football star and lawyer, is known for being the first vice president to assume the presidency under the 25th Amendment and for his controversial pardon of Richard Nixon. He's also remembered for his humble and accidental rise to the presidency.
Born in 1913
The 37th President of the United States, a polarizing figure who led the country through significant domestic and foreign policy changes, infamous for his involvement in the Watergate scandal.
Born in 1918
The 39th Vice President of the United States, a politician embroiled in scandal, resigning amidst corruption charges, forever tainting his legacy. He's infamous for being the first VP to resign due to criminal conduct.
Born in 1863
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99 Years Old
A visionary leader who transformed the automotive industry with innovative strategies and iconic products, including the Mustang and Minivan.
92 Years Old
The 13th United States Secretary of Defense, a high-ranking government official, oversaw the US military during the Iraq War and was known for his controversial decisions and quotes. He's infamous for his "known unknowns" phrase.
