Geraldine Ferraro dies aged 75

Groundbreaking US Democratic politician Geraldine Ferraro has died at the age of 75.

She had been been suffering from cancer for many years.

Ms Ferraro was the first female vice-presidential candidate to represent a major political party, when she became Walter Mondale’s running mate in 1984.

Their presidential bid was heavily defeated by Republican Ronald Reagan and his running mate, George Bush snr.

A statement released by Ms Ferraro’s family said she was widely known as a “leader, a fighter for justice, and a tireless advocate for those without a voice”.

It continued: “Her courage and generosity of spirit throughout her life, waging battles big and small, public and personal, will never be forgotten and will be sorely missed.”

Ms Ferraro was a low-profile politician serving as a New York City congresswoman when she was picked by Mr Mondale.

Despite their overwhelming defeat, she paid tribute to his decision to choose her.

“Campaigns, even if you lose them, do serve a purpose,” she said at the time. “My candidacy has said the days of discrimination are numbered. American women will never be second-class citizens again.”