Uday Hussein, aged 39:
Flamboyant womaniser who liked fast cars and cowboy boots.
Loose cannon, fell from favour after beating to death one of his father's favourite servants in November 1988.
Shot and badly wounded in assassination attempt in 1996, crippling him and ending his chances of taking over from his father.
Was chairman of the Iraqi Olympic Committee and head of the Iraqi Football Association.
Was head of the Journalists' Union, owned most influential newspaper, Babel, and ran popular Shebab television channel.
Elected to parliament in 2000, apparently seeking to revive his succession claim after brother Qusay emerged as head of security apparatus.
Qusay Hussein, aged 37:
Quieter, lower profile than the flamboyant Uday.
Emerged as father's political heir after older brother Uday wounded in 1996 assassination attempt.
Took over parts of military and feared security apparatus.
Controlled the Republican Guards, intelligence services and a special force providing security for Saddam.
Wore civilian suits, respectfully bowed and kissed his father's hand in public. At leadership or military meetings, dutifully listened to Saddam's every word and took notes.
Like his father and brother, Qusay was ruthless in dealing with opponents. He put down political disturbances in 1998 and sent dissidents to their deaths.
- (Reuters)