Tip O'Neill was an American politician who served as the Speaker of the House of Representatives from 1977 to 1987. A member of the Democratic Party, he represented Massachusetts's 8th congressional district for 35 years, from 1953 to 1987. O'Neill was known for his ability to build consensus and his commitment to social welfare programs. Born on December 9, 1912, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, O'Neill grew up in a working-class family. He played a significant role in shaping key legislation during his tenure, including the Social Security Amendments and the Tax Reform Act of 1986. O'Neill passed away on January 5, 1994.