Amid the solemn atmosphere of Washington National Cathedral, a unique gathering took place on Thursday, bringing together five former U.S. presidents — Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden — to honor the life of Jimmy Carter, the last of their generation to pass. Their combined ages totaled an impressive 379 years, a span that covers the period back to the mid-1600s, long before the concept of a unified American nation materialized.
This assembly of past leaders symbolizes a significant chapter of American history, forming a direct link to iconic figures such as the Roosevelts, Lincoln, and Washington. Alongside these presidents were four individuals who have held the vice-presidency: Dan Quayle, Al Gore, Mike Pence, and Kamala Harris, the current officeholder.
The structure of the American government consists of three branches, intentionally designed to transcend individual identities. However, in a culture that often idolizes strong personalities, the role of the president has evolved into a unique phenomenon, intertwining the person and the office in an unmatched way.
The presidency is enveloped in a series of rituals and traditions. Ceremonies often feature music such as “Hail to the Chief” upon the president’s arrival, and the audience typically stands to show respect. Every gesture is underlined by a layer of protection and ceremonial decorum, evident even in moments like elaborate state funerals.
The presence of these leaders at Carter’s service was particularly striking, given their varied ideologies and approaches to leadership. They have each navigated the nation through pivotal moments, including conflicts, crises, technological advances, economic challenges, and public health emergencies. Regardless of differing opinions about their legacies, each has played a role in shaping the country’s trajectory during their time in office.
More profoundly, this gathering illustrated a moment of solidarity among individuals who, like the rest of the populace, are fundamentally human. On this day dedicated to mourning, they came together to pay tribute to a significant figure from a past era, adding an air of normalcy to a setting typically reserved for grandeur. The visual of them seated together, without any one person presiding over the moment, highlighted the principle that the government is fundamentally of the people, as famously articulated by Abraham Lincoln.
As Jason Carter, the grandson of the late president, articulated during his eulogy, it was a celebration of “the power of regular people.” In a political landscape awash with inconceivable wealth and influence, it is important to remember that, despite their elevated status, these individuals remain part of the greater citizenry.
Their collective power is indeed remarkable, yet it is inherently limited by the system of checks and balances. Regardless of how history ultimately views Biden, Trump, Obama, Bush, and Clinton, the ongoing narrative will continue to recognize Carter, the esteemed leader for whom they gathered to honor.
Stuart Eizenstat, a close friend and advisor to Carter, offered a fitting tribute during the memorial, suggesting that while Carter may not be a candidate for Mount Rushmore, he rightfully belongs in the foothills of American greatness.
