Among the British, Yorkshiremen are known to be tough.  They are a "no-nonsense" breed of individuals known for common sense, thrift, and hard work. Understanding J. Hudson Taylor's background may explain why this man quietly impacted China as no other foreigner has ever done.  Yet of all the men whose lives have impressed me—spiritual mentors who have been benchmarks for my personal growth and goals—none is any harder to figure out than Hudson Taylor—which may be precisely why he is so important.