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Born James Richard "Rick" Perry
The fifth-generation Texan was born in the West Texas town of Paint Creek. His parents were both ranchers. Photo by Caleb Bryant Miller/The Texas Tribune -
Perry graduates from Texas A&M
Perry earned his degree in animal science in 1972. As an Aggie, he was also a member of the Corps of Cadets and the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, as well as senior class social secretary. Photo by the Texas Tribune -
Perry leaves military as captain
Perry's time in the U.S. Air Force, during which he was promoted to captain, included stints in Mali, Mauritania, Chad and Guatemala. Photo from the Dallas Morning News. -
Perry elected to state legislature as Democrat
During his eight years as a Democrat in the State Legislature, Perry's colleagues said he displayed fiscal conservatism. Photo from the Texas State Library & Archives Commission -
Perry narrowly earns lieutenant governor title
Perry earned 50.5 percent of the vote and became Texas' first Republican lieutenant governor since Reconstruction. He served under Gov. George W. Bush. Photo by Michael Mulvey/Dallas Morning News
