Former Rep. Charlie Rangel dies at age 94

First elected to Congress in 1970 as a Democratic representative, Rangel would end up serving 23 terms in the body, where he was co-founder of the Congressional Black Caucus.

He left public service in Congress after 46 years in office, in 2017.

A Korean War veteran, he was awarded the Purple Heart for valor and performance in the war effort. Upon returning home, he graduated from college and began his career of activism and civil service.

Born in Harlem, New York, his origins marked his political career. During his years on Capitol Hill, he became an advocate for his community.