Saddam was very subdued: Eyewitness

A chapter of Iraqi history ended quietly as a 'calm' Saddam Hussein, former dictator, was executed in Baghdad on Saturday morning.

According to Sami al-Askari, a Shiite politician and close associate of Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, who was present at the execution, Saddam was subdued as a noose was placed around his neck, before a guard pulled a lever and ended his life. He said the process took about 25 minutes, though Saddam's death was 'very quick'.

This was confirmed by another official witness, who also added that Saddam 'did not tremble' and intoned 'There is no God but God and Mohammed is his prophet' before his death.

The execution took place at an Iraqi army base in Kadhimiya, which was ironically also where Saddam was said to have tortured several people.

This district in North Baghdad is also home to one of the holiest shrines of Shiite Islam.

There were reportedly 15 people present at the execution; there was, however, no cleric present, as Saddam had not requested for one.