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Back in 2007, it was safe to say that 99 percent of the United States had no idea who Ron Paul was. Fast forward to 2017, that number has likely been slashed in half or perhaps even more.

In a crowded 2008 Republican primary field, the then-Texas Republican Congressman was able to stand out by promoting the constitution, anti-war, pro-freedom policies. As others in both parties were championing for more wars, more government surveillance and more of the same, Dr. Paul was championing an end to an interventionist foreign policy, an end to the income tax and an end to the Federal Reserve System.

At the time, Paul was gaining momentum thanks to the Internet and a passionate grassroots movement. There were numerous videos that highlighted the bestselling author’s voting record, statements and stances on the issues. It was one of the greatest grassroots campaigns in modern U.S. history.

Rather than nominating Paul to lead the Republican Party, GOP voters opted for neocons like John McCain (2008) and Mitt Romney (2012). He defied conventional Republican wisdom: he was booed for citing the Golden Rule, he was shouted down for wanting to bring the troops home.

On this Throwback Thursday, here is a video from 2007 that likely introduced tens of thousands of people to Ron Paul and the liberty movement: