Kranish and Helman describe George Romney as blunt and outspoken, explaining that if he “shot from the hip, his son, before he shoots at all, carefully studies his target, lines up the barrel just right, and might even fire a few practice rounds.” Though George’s temperament was fire to Mitt’s ice, the younger Romney deeply admired his father’s drive and took a similar course, from successful business executive, to well-liked governor, to presidential hopeful.

By Gage Skidmore