Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a global humanitarian, passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Carter, who holds the record as the longest-living U.S. president, spent his final months in home hospice care in Plains, Georgia, beginning in February 2023.
Carter’s presidency, though marked by significant achievements such as brokering peace between Israel and Egypt through the Camp David Accords, faced challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and domestic economic struggles. Despite serving only one term, his post-presidency defined a legacy of compassion and service, earning him global respect.
Early Life and Naval Career
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, James Earl Carter Jr. was the eldest of four children. His parents, Earl Carter, a farmer and businessman, and Lillian Gordy Carter, a nurse, instilled in him a strong sense of community and duty. Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and joined the elite nuclear submarine program under Admiral Hyman Rickover. However, the death of his father in 1953 brought him back to Georgia to manage the family farm, a decision that steered him toward public service.
Path to the Presidency
Carter began his political career as a school board member and later as a state senator. In 1970, he was elected governor of Georgia, gaining national attention for his progressive policies. In 1976, Carter launched an unlikely presidential campaign, ultimately defeating incumbent Gerald Ford. On his inauguration day, Carter made a statement of humility and accessibility by walking down Pennsylvania Avenue with his family instead of riding in a motorcade.
Presidential Achievements and Challenges
Carter’s administration emphasized human rights, environmental conservation, and restoring trust in government post-Watergate. However, his presidency faced challenges, including resistance from Washington insiders, economic struggles, and the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, which remained unresolved until the final moments of his term. These difficulties contributed to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980.
A Legacy of Service
After leaving office, Carter returned to Plains and launched what many consider his most impactful chapter. He became a leading figure in Habitat for Humanity and co-founded the Carter Center with his wife Rosalynn. The center focused on advancing peace, democracy, and global health initiatives. For his efforts, Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 and numerous other accolades.
Personal Life and Final Years
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, married for 77 years, were a team in life and service. Rosalynn passed away in November 2023. Together, they raised four children and built a legacy of kindness and philanthropy. Carter is survived by his children Amy, Chip, Jack, and Jeff; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
As historian Douglas Brinkley noted, “People will be celebrating Jimmy Carter for hundreds of years. His reputation is only going to grow.” Carter’s life was a testament to the power of humility, perseverance, and service to others.
