McCain's legacy is more complex than simply a war veteran and two-time contender for the US presidency. Let's learn more about the man who held an important space in American politics.

In the summer of 2008, John McCain reached the apex of his long political career. Standing center stage, as the Republican presidential nominee.

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 US PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE "Tonight, I have a privilege given few Americans – The privilege of accepting our party's nomination for President of the United States."

For his running mate, - McCain selected staunch conservative, Alaska's Governor Sarah Palin. At first, the move re-energized McCain's campaign. But Palin's lack of experience hurt the ticket, as well as raising doubts about McCain's judgement. Still, McCain's compassion – and integrity showed through. At a campaign rally Republican faithful said they "could not trust," -Democratic candidate for president, Barack Obama.

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 US PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE "I have read about him, --And he's not, he's not – he's an Arab. No ma'am, no ma'am, --no ma'am. He's a decent family man, citizens –I just happen to have disagreements with."

In this kinder and gentler campaign – Obama ended up winning. John McCain was born in 1936 ---After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy – He became a fighter pilot.

In July 1967, McCain was almost killed in a fire aboard the USS Forrestal –while the carrier was off the coast of North Vietnam.

Just three months later – McCain's plane was shot down during a bombing mission over North Vietnam -- and he was severely injured.

McCain was held prisoner for five-and-a-half years before being released, limping, as he is handed over to U.S. military leaders. In 1980 – McCain divorced his first wife, -Carol. And, within weeks, married Cindy Hensley,-- an heiress to a lucrative beer distributorship.

John McCain has seven children, including Bridget – a daughter he and his wife Cindy adopted as a child from Bangladesh.

McCain, ran for president in 2000 –but withdrew early, and threw his support behind eventual winner, George W. Bush.

In August of 2000- McCain underwent five hours of surgery to remove skin cancer from his temple, and upper arm.

McCain, continued his successful political career. While he labelled himself, a "foot-soldier in the Reagan revolution" –McCain found himself a darling of the U.S. media, for his frankness and openness.

SENATOR JOHN McCAIN REPUBLICAN-ARIZONA "Oh, as I have said many times in the past –there is, there is another shoe that will drop, and be other shoes that drop."

McCain also clashed with his Republican colleagues at times –most notably and recently in the end of July of this year, giving a thumbs down that drew gasps from the U.S. Senate, and handed Donald Trump a significant setback in the president's efforts to undo Obama-care.