In brief
Dick Cheney, the former U.S. Vice President known for his influential role in the War on Terror, passed away at the age of 84. His career spanned decades, including stints as Chief of Staff for President Gerald Ford and Defense Secretary under President George H.W. Bush, before he became one of the most powerful Vice Presidents in history under George W. Bush. Cheney's legacy is marked by his ardent support for military action in response to 9/11 and his controversial stances on issues like torture. In his later years, he became a vocal critic of the Republican Party under Donald Trump.
Dick Cheney, who has died at the age of 84, had a glittering - if controversial - career in American public life.
He served as President Gerald Ford's White House chief of staff in the 1970s, before spending a decade in the House of Representatives.
President George H W Bush made him defence secretary during the first Gulf War and the US invasion of Panama.
In 2001, Cheney became one of the most powerful vice-presidents in history.
He was a key architect of President George W Bush's 'War on Terror' after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and an early advocate of the invasion of Iraq.
But, in his final years, he became a bitter critic of the Republican party under the leadership of President Donald Trump.
In our nation's 248-year history, there has never been an individual who is a greater threat to our republic, Cheney said.
Richard Bruce Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, on 30 January 1941. His father worked for the US Department of Agriculture, while his mother had been a successful softball player in the 1930s.
Throughout his political career, Cheney was characterized by his powerful influence and controversial decisions, including his staunch support for enhanced interrogation techniques and his involvement in international military strategies. After leaving office, he became known for his opposition to facing the Trump era, aligning himself with his daughter's critiques of the former president.
Cheney's legacy will likely spark debates on both sides of the political spectrum for years to come.
