ATLANTA – Jimmy Carter, the agricultural entrepreneur who ascended to the presidency following the turbulent eras marked by the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War, has passed away at the age of 100. His death occurred on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia, approximately 22 months after he entered hospice care, as noted by The Carter Center. Carter spent most of his life in Plains alongside his wife, Rosalynn, who passed away at the age of 96 in November 2023.
The Carter Center expressed on social media, “Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia.” They also shared that he died peacefully in the presence of his family. In response to this sad news, President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, highlighting that the world has lost an “extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian,” along with a personal friend. He praised Carter’s various contributions, including efforts to eliminate diseases, foster peace, advocate for civil and human rights, support democratic processes, and assist the homeless.
Biden emphasized the importance of Carter’s legacy, encouraging young people and anyone seeking a life of purpose to learn from Carter’s example of principle, faith, and humility. He also called attention to his long relationship with Carter, reminiscing about shared memories while reflecting on how Carter provided comfort during personal tragedies, including the loss of his son Beau to cancer in 2015. Following Carter’s passing, Biden scheduled a state funeral in Washington, D.C., on January 9, also declaring the date a National Day of Mourning across the United States and ordering flags to be flown at half-staff for 30 days.
Carter, who accomplished numerous roles throughout his life—including businessman, Navy officer, evangelist, politician, negotiator, author, and humanitarian—leaves behind a legacy that challenges political norms. The 39th president combined his ambition with a sharp intellect, deep faith, and relentless work ethic, participating in worldwide diplomatic initiatives well into his later years and dedicating his time to building homes for those in need.
In the political sphere, Carter entered the 1976 presidential race as an underdog, gaining recognition as the governor of Georgia. Despite beginning his campaign from relative obscurity, his commitment to honesty and public funding resonated with voters seeking change in the wake of Nixon’s presidency. He famously stated during his campaign that if he ever lied to the public, they should not vote for him, which helped him secure a narrow victory against incumbent Gerald Ford.
Once in office, Carter faced various challenges, such as Cold War tensions and economic crises, but he managed to broker a significant peace agreement in the Middle East in 1978 with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. However, his presidency was marred by inflation, energy shortages, and a detrimental hostage crisis involving Iran, which ultimately contributed to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election.
Following his presidency, Carter transitioned into a remarkable post-White House career, launching The Carter Center in 1982, focused on humanitarian efforts and democratic initiatives across the globe. He sought to promote peace and human rights, addressing nuclear tensions and observing free elections in various countries. His commitment to alleviating poverty and disease, particularly the campaign to eradicate the guinea worm disease, showcased his dedication to public health.
Carter received a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his relentless pursuit of peaceful resolutions to international conflicts. His life encompassed significant accomplishments, including establishing a focus on human rights in U.S. foreign policy and fostering diplomatic relations with China.
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, shaped by his upbringing in a predominantly Black community, Carter developed a complex understanding of race relations early in his life. His upbringing in a land-owning family contrasted with the struggles of the tenant farmers around him. After a brief career in the U.S. Navy, he returned to Georgia, ultimately becoming deeply involved in local politics.
Despite facing skepticism from the political elite, Carter built a platform based on tackling important issues head-on, garnering support from diverse communities. He enacted progressive changes during his governorship, yet his time in office was ultimately judged amid economic difficulties and political challenges.
Carter’s post-presidential legacy reaffirmed his global impact, establishing him as a humanitarian icon dedicated to improving lives and promoting understanding across cultural boundaries. Even into his late years, he remained active in both policy discussions and public health initiatives and continued to affirm his belief in the value of compassion and service.
His passing marks the end of an era for a leader recognized as one of the most significant figures in American history, whose extensive contributions resonate beyond the political realm.
