Former President Jimmy Carter dies at 100

 Former President Jimmy Carter dies at 100

 Former President Jimmy Carter dies at 100

Former President Jimmy Carter, a trailblazer in redefining the role of a post-presidency, passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. His son, Chip Carter, confirmed that the former president died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, at approximately 3:45 p.m.
A Life of Service


Carter, who holds the distinction of being the longest-living U.S. president, entered hospice care at his Plains residence in February 2023 following several brief hospital stays.


The only Georgian to ever be elected to the White House, Carter’s presidency was marked by significant achievements, including brokering peace between Israel and Egypt through the Camp David Accords. However, his administration also faced challenges, such as the Iran hostage crisis and economic turmoil at home. Despite a single-term presidency, Carter's reputation flourished in the decades that followed, largely due to the philanthropic work he undertook with his wife, Rosalynn Carter, through initiatives like Habitat for Humanity and the Carter Center.
A Remarkable Legacy


"People will be celebrating Jimmy Carter for hundreds of years. His reputation is only going to grow," remarked Rice University history professor Douglas Brinkley in his book, The Unfinished Presidency of Jimmy Carter.


Born James Earl Carter Jr. on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, he was the eldest of four children to Earl Carter, a farmer and businessman, and Lillian Gordy Carter, a registered nurse. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy, Carter joined the Navy's elite nuclear submarine program. His promising military career shifted course when his father’s death in 1953 prompted him to return to Plains and manage the family farm.


It was during this time that Carter began his political career, first serving on the school board, then as a state senator, and eventually as governor of Georgia in 1970. His success in state politics set the stage for an ambitious presidential campaign, culminating in his victory over Republican President Gerald Ford in 1976.
Highlights of His Presidency


Carter’s presidency focused on human rights, environmental conservation, and restoring trust in government after the Watergate scandal. His tenure was symbolized by moments of humility, such as walking down Pennsylvania Avenue with his family during his inauguration instead of riding in a limousine.


However, his administration faced significant challenges. The Iran hostage crisis and a struggling economy, compounded by resistance within his own party and rising Republican influence under Ronald Reagan, contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election.
A Life After the Presidency


Returning to Plains after leaving the White House, Carter dedicated himself to humanitarian efforts. His volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity and the establishment of the Carter Center in Atlanta solidified his legacy as a global advocate for peace, health, and democracy. These efforts earned him numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize, the United Nations Human Rights Prize, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, among others.


President Bill Clinton once said of the Carters, "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."
Family and Final Chapter


Carter was preceded in death by his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023. Together, they leave behind a legacy through their four children—Amy, Chip, Jack, and Jeff—11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.


The Carter Center will continue to carry forward the humanitarian and democratic initiatives championed by this remarkable couple.