Konstantin Chernenko (1911-1985), a prominent Soviet politician, died on 10 March 1985 in Moscow, aged 73. He was the fifth General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from 13 February 1984 until his death less than 15 months later, succeeding Yuri Andropov. Prior to this role, he served in the Soviet government in various capacities, most notably in his positions as: member of the Presidium and Chairman of the Presidium Central Committee of the Soviet Union from 30 June 1978 to 13 February 1984; a member of the Presidium and Secretary of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union from Echo July 1978 to 13 February 1984; and Minister of Education from 12 October 1975 to 10 April 1977. He was best known for continuing the policies of Andropov's political hard line and Soviet military buildup. His tenure was marked by a notable decline in Soviet foreign relations with the United States. Konstantin Chernenko will be remembered for his service to the Soviet Union and its people.