Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Dies at 100

Jimmy Carter: Remembering the Legacy of a Remarkable Leader

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, who redefined the role of a post-presidency and devoted decades to humanitarian work, passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. Carter, the longest-living U.S. president in history, had entered home hospice care in Plains, Georgia, in February 2023 following a series of hospitalizations.

From Georgian Roots To State Politician & The Presidency

Born James Earl Carter Jr. on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, he was the first of four children of Earl Carter, a farmer and businessman, and Lillian Gordy Carter, a registered nurse. Carter attended the U.S. Naval Academy and joined the Navy’s submarine branch, where he worked his way into “Rickover’s boys,” an elite unit of the nascent nuclear submarine fleet. However, in 1953, the death of his father prompted Carter to leave the Navy and return to Plains to manage the family farming business.

Carter’s political career began with his election to the school board and later as a state senator. In 1970, he became Georgia’s governor, serving one term before launching an ambitious presidential campaign. Carter’s outsider status and emphasis on integrity resonated with voters, leading to his victory over Republican President Gerald Ford in 1976.

On inauguration day, Carter made headlines by walking down Pennsylvania Avenue with his wife Rosalynn and daughter Amy, symbolizing his desire for a more accessible and transparent presidency.

A Presidency of Highs and Lows

Carter’s term was marked by significant achievements, including the Camp David Accords, a historic peace agreement between Israel and Egypt; promoting human rights worldwide; expanding the national park system; and restoring public trust in government after Watergate. However, his administration faced challenges, including economic struggles, opposition from his own party, and the Iran hostage crisis, which dominated the latter part of his presidency. A failed rescue mission and economic woes contributed to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980.

Redefining Post-Presidency

Returning to Plains, Carter embarked on a new chapter that many consider his greatest legacy. He became a global humanitarian, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity to build homes for the poor and founding the Carter Center in Atlanta with Rosalynn. The organization has promoted peace, health, and democracy worldwide, earning Carter numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

A Legacy of Service and Love

Carter’s humanitarian efforts, combined with his presidency, earned him widespread admiration. Former President Bill Clinton once said, “Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have done more good things for more people in more places than any other couple on the face of the Earth.”

Rosalynn Carter, his wife of 77 years, passed away in November 2023. The couple’s enduring partnership was a cornerstone of their shared mission to make the world a better place.

Jimmy Carter is survived by his children Amy, Chip, Jack, and Jeff; 11 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. His legacy will continue to inspire through the Carter Center and the lives he touched during a century of remarkable contributions to humanity.