Oliver North is a former United States Marine Corps officer known for his role in the Iran-Contra Affair during the 1980s. He became a controversial figure after it was revealed that he was involved in a secret operation to sell arms to Iran and use the proceeds to fund the Contras, a rebel group in Nicaragua. After the scandal, North faced legal challenges but was ultimately convicted on charges related to the affair, although his convictions were later vacated. He has since worked as a political commentator and authored several books, maintaining a presence in American political discourse.