Ted Kennedy: Lion of the Senate Dies at 77

Edward M. Kennedy was a Democratic U.S. senator from Massachusetts for 47 years. Born on February 22, 1932, in Boston, he was the youngest brother of John F. Kennedy and Robert F. Kennedy.

He was first elected in 1962 and served until his death, becoming one of the most influential legislators in history. He championed health care, civil rights, immigration reform and education, and helped write the Americans with Disabilities Act. He ran for president in 1980 but lost the nomination to Jimmy Carter.

In 1969 he was involved in a car accident at Chappaquiddick Island in which Mary Jo Kopechne died. Kennedy was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in 2008. He died at his home in Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, on August 25, 2009, at age 77.

Achievements: U.S. Senator (1962-2009), Presidential Medal of Freedom (2009).

Birth: February 22, 1932 - Boston, Massachusetts.

Profession: Politician.

Interesting Facts: He was among the longest-serving senators in U.S. history.