Jimmy Carter dead at 100: World honors his humanitarian legacy

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100. The 39th president, a Georgia peanut farmer who sought to restore trust in government during his presidency from 1977 to 1981, was also renowned for his relentless humanitarian efforts, earning him a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Carter died peacefully Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, nearly two years after entering hospice care.

At 52, Carter took office on January 20, 1977, after defeating Gerald R. Ford in the 1976 election. Despite his one-term presidency, his post-presidency legacy as a peacemaker and advocate for human rights left an indelible mark.

State Funeral Set for January 9

President Joe Biden has announced a state funeral for Jimmy Carter, scheduled for January 9 in Washington, D.C. The day has also been declared a National Day of Mourning, with flags ordered to fly at half-staff for 30 days in Carter’s honor.

World leaders are expected to attend, paying tribute to a man whose influence extended far beyond U.S. borders. Leaders around the globe praised Carter for his diplomacy and humanitarianism, citing his 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for conflict-resolution efforts as a testament to his enduring impact.

Global Leaders Reflect on Carter’s Legacy

Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino highlighted Carter’s pivotal role in returning control of the Panama Canal to Panama, a historic decision underscoring his commitment to fairness. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban lauded Carter for returning Hungary’s Crown of St. Stephen in 1978, a symbolic act that inspired hope during a bleak era.

Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi commended Carter’s instrumental role in the Egypt-Israel peace agreement, calling it a monumental achievement etched in history. Similarly, King Charles III praised Carter’s unwavering dedication to peace and human rights.

Personal Tributes and Historical Footnotes

British media revisited a lighthearted controversy during Carter’s 1977 visit to the U.K., when he reportedly kissed the Queen Mother on the cheek—later clarified by Carter in his autobiography, A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety. Irish President Michael Higgins reflected on Carter’s empathy for global suffering, while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted Carter’s enduring contributions to improving health and safety worldwide.

“Our world is a better place because of Jimmy Carter’s life and work,” Albanese said, capturing the sentiment echoed by leaders across continents.

Jimmy Carter’s remarkable journey from peanut farmer to global humanitarian will be remembered as a legacy of peace, compassion, and unwavering service to humanity.