Nelson Rockefeller was many things in his life. He was Governor of New York, Vice President under Gerald Ford, he was a noted businessman, an art collector, a philanthropist and a member of the richest family in the country.

Rockefellers importance to the Republican party is immense. Not only did he serve in office and in constructive ways but his moderate beliefs were a good balance to the ultra-conservative, religious-based type of conservatism that was beginning to take over the party. Republicans, even today, who are moderate to liberals are referred to as Rockefeller Republicans, and its a good name. He believed in medical care, firm support for the arts and education, environmental and conservation issues, and creating more mass transportation. He was tough on crime, tough on civil rights violations and tough on drugs. He achieved some fame and infamy for his response to the Attica prison riots while he was governor. The prisoner take over ended bloodily when 39 people were killed due to his reluctance to negotiate with the prisoners. Largely, the country agreed with him. He was a great pragmatist who started many public works, and his legacy is looked at, it is far more liberal than almost anyone else in the Republican party today. He did unusual things like give his Vice Presidential salary back because he didnt need it, used his own jet for official travel, and got a divorce and remarried. Quite shocking at the time!

Rockefeller remained politically active, was an asset to his country, and continued having the kind of life only a Rockefeller could. His death was controversial yet decorum ruled as it does with all things Rockefeller.

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