Ron Paul effectively ended his presidential campaign yesterday, likely signaling the end of his storied career. Paul never had much of a chance to win the nomination, but many of his libertarian beliefs have become keystones for the Tea Party. Whether you love or hate Paul, no one can dispute that he gave us plenty to talk about.

Here’s a visual history of his quirky career — as a country doctor, newsletter writer, staunch libertarian, proud isolationist, dark horse candidate, and Tea Party father.