The Life and Times of Marion Barry

The highs and lows of the former mayor's life.

Down But Never Out - In 2004, Barry staged another comeback, this time in a seat on the city council, representing the District's poor and underserved Ward 8. He was sworn in on Jan. 2, 2005, and remained in office until his death. (Photo: Micah Walter/Reuters/Corbis)
Marion Barry - Four years prior to being sworn in for the second time as the mayor of Washington, D.C., Marion Barry was forced from the mayor's office and later imprisoned for being caught on videotape smoking crack. The politician made the ultimate comeback, now acting as the councilman for Washington, D.C. Can't keep a good man down, can you?(Photo: Andrew Harnik/ The Washington Times /Landov)
Having His Say - In June, Barry published his memoir, Mayor for Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry Jr. In it he writes, “I don’t want my life and legacy to be all about what happened to me at the Vista Hotel,” referring to his infamous 1990 drug bust.  (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)
Book Talk - Barry delivered a spirited talk about his life and legacy during an event to promote his book hosted by BET Networks.   (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)A Leader Who Fought for All - "We are saddened at the passing of Councilmember and former Mayor of Washington, D.C., Marion Barry. He was a civil rights activist, advocate for the people and champion for the District of Columbia. He was a leader who fought on behalf of the poor, the young, the elderly and those without a voice in government. He worked hard to provide opportunities for the underserved for more than 40 years. He was also instrumental in improving opportunities for Washington-based businesses, and his support was critical to the growth of BET. For that, we will always be grateful," said Debra L. Lee, chairman and CEO of BET Networks.  (Photo: Phelan Marc/BET)

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Still Going Strong - Barry poses for a portrait outside his office at the Wilson Building on Dec. 11, 2012. (Photo: Andrew Harnik/The Washington Times/Landov) 

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