Robert Byrd

A powerful representative and senator from the state of West Virginia, Robert Carlyle Byrd has left an impressive mark on American politics. One of the longest serving senators, he is considered "the Dean of the Senate" - a true master of the body's arcane rules and procedures. He lead the Senate Democrats from 1977-1986. A man of strong convictions, he made news in 2003 by leading criticism against President 'George W. Bush''s Iraq war policies.