Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and revered global humanitarian, passed away peacefully on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. His son, Chip Carter, confirmed the news of his passing. Carter, who was 100 years old, leaves behind a legacy that spans nearly a century of leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of humanity. His death comes less than two months after the passing of his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, underscoring the end of an era defined by their extraordinary partnership and shared commitment to service.
Carter, who had been the longest-living president in U.S. history, entered hospice care in early 2023 following a series of health challenges, including a diagnosis of melanoma that had metastasized to his brain and liver. Despite his declining health, he continued to inspire millions around the globe through his remarkable spirit, humility, and commitment to humanitarian causes. His passing marks the conclusion of a life lived with purpose, determination, and grace, one that bridged the divide between public office and private citizenry in unprecedented ways.
Born on October 1, 1924, in the small rural town of Plains, Georgia, James Earl Carter Jr. grew up on his family’s peanut farm. The son of a farmer and a nurse, Carter’s upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of community, work ethic, and faith. These values would later shape his career and his presidency. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946, Carter embarked on a career in the Navy, where he served as a submarine officer. His time in the military provided him with a global perspective and honed his skills in leadership and problem-solving.
In 1953, following the death of his father, Carter returned to Plains to manage the family farm. This period marked his entry into public service. He became involved in local politics, serving on the school board and eventually being elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1962. His political ascent continued when he was elected governor of Georgia in 1970, where he championed desegregation and government reform.
Carter’s rise to national prominence came in 1976, when he ran a grassroots presidential campaign as a Washington outsider. His promise to restore honesty and integrity to the White House resonated with voters in the aftermath of the Watergate scandal. As president, Carter prioritized human rights, energy policy, and diplomatic efforts. His administration’s crowning achievement was the Camp David Accords, a groundbreaking peace agreement between Egypt and Israel brokered by Carter in 1978. This historic agreement earned him international acclaim and solidified his reputation as a peacemaker.
However, Carter’s presidency was not without challenges. The Iran hostage crisis, which saw 52 American diplomats and citizens held captive for 444 days, and economic struggles marked by inflation and energy shortages overshadowed his tenure. These difficulties contributed to his defeat in the 1980 presidential election to Ronald Reagan. Despite the setbacks, Carter’s moral leadership and commitment to principle stood out, and his presidency has been re-evaluated by historians in recent years.
What truly defined Carter’s legacy was his post-presidency. In 1982, he and Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting human rights, democracy, and global health. Through the Carter Center, the former president spearheaded initiatives to eradicate diseases such as Guinea worm disease and river blindness, monitor elections in developing nations, and advocate for peace in conflict zones. His tireless efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, making him the only U.S. president to receive the honor for work done after leaving office.
Carter also became a familiar figure on construction sites through his work with Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that builds homes for families in need. Alongside Rosalynn, he personally contributed to building hundreds of homes across the United States and around the world, embodying the values of service and humility that defined his life. Their dedication to this cause inspired countless others to give back to their communities.
In addition to his humanitarian work, Carter was an accomplished author, penning more than 30 books on topics ranging from politics and faith to poetry and memoir. His writings offered insights into his philosophies on leadership, human rights, and the pursuit of peace.
The Carters’ marriage was a cornerstone of their legacy. Together, they represented an enduring partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared purpose. Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96, was a fierce advocate for mental health awareness and an essential partner in the couple’s humanitarian work. Their union, spanning nearly eight decades, was a testament to their love and dedication to each other and the causes they championed.
Carter’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from world leaders, former presidents, and citizens who admired his lifelong commitment to service. President Joe Biden described Carter as “a man of deep faith, unshakable integrity, and boundless compassion,” adding that his “leadership in advancing peace, democracy, and human rights will inspire generations to come.” Former President Barack Obama lauded Carter’s post-presidency as “an unparalleled example of how to use influence for the greater good.”
Historians have noted that Carter’s impact extends far beyond his four years in the White House. His post-presidency redefined the role of former presidents, setting a standard for how individuals can continue to contribute to society after leaving office. His work through the Carter Center alone has saved countless lives and advanced the cause of human dignity around the globe.
As the nation mourns the loss of one of its most principled leaders, plans are underway to honor Carter’s life and legacy. A state funeral will be held in Washington, D.C., followed by a private burial in Plains, where he will be laid to rest alongside Rosalynn. The Carter family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Carter Center to continue its mission of advancing peace and improving lives worldwide.
Jimmy Carter’s life serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of compassion, humility, and service. From his humble beginnings in rural Georgia to the global stage as a statesman and humanitarian, Carter’s journey reflects the enduring potential of individuals to make a difference in the world. His legacy will endure as an inspiration to future generations to strive for a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world.
