Alan Greenspan, the influential economist who served five terms as chairman of the U.S.Federal Reserve, died at the age of 100 from complications related to Parkinson’s disease, according to his wife, NBC News correspondent Andrea Mitchell.Greenspan led the Federal Reserve from 1987 to 2006 under four U.S.presidents and became one of the most powerful figures in American economic policymaking.

During his tenure, he oversaw major economic events including the 1987 stock market crash, the long economic expansion of the 1990s, the rise of the internet economy, the bursting of the dot-com bubble, and the aftermath of the September 11 attacks.

Born in New York City in 1926, Greenspan studied economics at New York University and later earned a doctorate from New York University after additional studies at Columbia University.

Before leading the Federal Reserve, he worked as an economic consultant and served in government roles under Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.He was appointed Federal Reserve chairman by President Ronald Reagan in 1987.Greenspan was widely praised for helping guide the U.S.economy through years of growth and low inflation, earning a reputation as one of the most influential central bankers in history.

However, his legacy became more controversial after the 2007-2008 financial crisis, as critics argued that his support for financial deregulation and failure to address risks in the housing market contributed to the conditions that led to the collapse.

Following his retirement in 2006, Greenspan wrote books, advised clients through his consulting firm, and remained an important voice on economic issues.He received numerous honors during his lifetime, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.The Federal Reserve praised his lasting impact on monetary policy, economics, and the institution itself.