Ted Kennedy: An American Icon

Sen. Edward Kennedy, who began his public life as the prodigal son of a political dynasty and ended as its respected patriarch, died late Tuesday at his home in Hyannis Port, Mass. He was 77 and had been battling brain cancer.

Kennedy’s family announced the senator’s death early this morning in a statement.

“We’ve lost the irreplaceable center of our family and joyous light in our lives, but the inspiration of his faith, optimism, and perseverance will live on in our hearts forever,” the statement said. “He loved this country and devoted his life to serving it. He always believed that our best days were still ahead, but it’s hard to imagine any of them without him.”

Triumph Books and USA Today partner to create a tribute to the life and times of Senator Ted Kennedy. We explore his political career, family life and personal tragedies that embodied the irrepressible presence that Ted and all the Kennedys have had upon American history.