Dick Cheney

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Richard Bruce Cheney (born January 30, 1941) is an American politician and businessman who served as the 46th Vice President of the United States from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. He is often cited as the most powerful vice president in American history.

Early Life and Education[edit | edit source]

Cheney was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, and grew up in Casper, Wyoming. He attended Yale University but did not complete his degree. He later earned both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in political science from the University of Wyoming.

Early Political Career[edit | edit source]

Cheney's political career began in 1969 when he interned for Congressman William A. Steiger. He later worked in the Nixon administration and served as the White House Chief of Staff under President Gerald Ford from 1975 to 1977.

U.S. House of Representatives[edit | edit source]

Cheney was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1978, representing Wyoming's at-large congressional district. He served six terms from 1979 to 1989. During his tenure, he was the House Minority Whip from 1989 to 1989.

Secretary of Defense[edit | edit source]

Cheney served as the 17th United States Secretary of Defense from 1989 to 1993 under President George H. W. Bush. He oversaw the Department of Defense during the Gulf War.

Vice Presidency[edit | edit source]

Cheney was selected as the running mate for George W. Bush in the 2000 presidential election. They won the election, and Cheney served as vice president from 2001 to 2009. His tenure was marked by significant influence over foreign policy, particularly in the War on Terror and the Iraq War.

Post-Vice Presidency[edit | edit source]

After leaving office, Cheney has remained active in politics and public life, often speaking on issues related to national security and foreign policy. He has also authored a memoir, "In My Time: A Personal and Political Memoir."

Personal Life[edit | edit source]

Cheney married Lynne Cheney in 1964, and they have two daughters, Elizabeth and Mary. Elizabeth, also known as Liz, has followed in her father's footsteps and is a prominent political figure.