Roger Milliken (1915-2010) was an American textile heir, industrialist, manufacturing executive, businessman, and prominent conservative political activist and philanthropist. Born into the wealthy Milliken family, which owned the major textile firm Milliken & Company, he was raised in a privileged environment that shaped his lifelong commitment to business and conservative principles. Milliken attended Yale University, where he earned a degree in economics in 1939, before joining the family business during World War II. He rose quickly through the ranks, becoming president in 1947 and later CEO, leading the company through decades of innovation in textiles while maintaining its status as a privately held enterprise focused on quality and efficiency. Under Milliken's leadership, Milliken & Company expanded its operations and became a global leader in textile manufacturing, emphasizing research and development. He served as CEO until 2005 and remained chairman until his death in 2010, overseeing a company known for its non-union workforce and conservative business practices. Milliken was also a major philanthropist, supporting conservative causes through foundations like the Milliken Family Foundation, which funded education, arts, and right-wing political initiatives. His business acumen was complemented by a staunch anti-union stance, which drew both praise from free-market advocates and criticism from labor groups. Milliken is often regarded as a 'political godfather' to the modern American conservative movement, providing financial and strategic support to figures like Barry Goldwater and organizations such as the John M. Olin Foundation. He was instrumental in funding think tanks and advocacy groups that promoted limited government and traditional values. A lifelong resident of Spartanburg, South Carolina, after his early years in New York, Milliken's influence extended through his roles in various boards and his discreet but powerful network of conservative donors. He passed away on December 30, 2010, leaving a legacy as a titan of industry and ideology.