Middle East & North Africa · Modern Era

Who was Saddam Hussein?

An Iraqi politician who served as the fifth president of Iraq from 1979 until his overthrow during the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.

Saddam Hussein (1937–2006) is remembered as a key figure from Iraq, known for their role: Dictator of Iraq.

Country / regionIraq · Middle East & North Africa
Known forDictator of Iraq
Years1937–2006
BornAl-Awja, Iraq
DiedBaghdad, Iraq

Why is Saddam Hussein important?

Saddam Hussein stands out in history for a specific reason: Served as president of Iraq from 1979 until 2003. Their story helps place major events, ideas, and cultural change in a wider historical context.

Key achievements

  • Served as president of Iraq from 1979 until 2003
  • Led the Iraqi Ba'ath Party as a leading proponent of Ba'athist ideology
  • Held power through multiple regional conflicts, including the Iran-Iraq War
  • Was removed from power during the 2003 United States-led invasion of Iraq

A fast fact

Saddam Hussein previously served as Iraq's vice president before becoming president in 1979.

Legacy

Saddam Hussein's decades-long rule and its associated conflicts remain a significant subject of study in modern Middle Eastern political history.

Iraqmodern historydictatorsMiddle East

What is Saddam Hussein best known for?

An Iraqi politician who served as the fifth president of Iraq from 1979 until his overthrow during the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.

When and where did Saddam Hussein live?

Saddam Hussein was born in Al-Awja, Iraq (1937–2006) and died in Baghdad, Iraq.

What is Saddam Hussein's lasting legacy?

Saddam Hussein's decades-long rule and its associated conflicts remain a significant subject of study in modern Middle Eastern political history.

How can I learn more about Saddam Hussein?

Use this profile as a starting point, then consult a library, museum, encyclopedia, or primary-source collection for deeper study.