Former US president Jimmy Carter passes away at 100

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a renowned champion of peace and human rights, has died at the age of 100. The Carter Center announced that he passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon at his residence in Plains, Georgia.

Carter, a former peanut farmer, holds the distinction of being the longest-living US president in history. He celebrated his centennial birthday in October 2023. Despite a presidency marked by economic challenges and diplomatic crises, Carter’s post-White House humanitarian work reshaped his legacy and earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.

Born in Georgia in 1924, Carter served as a lieutenant in the US Navy, governor of Georgia, and ultimately president from 1977 to 1981. His administration is remembered for its struggles with inflation, unemployment, and the Iran hostage crisis, but also for brokering the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel in 1978.

Following his landslide defeat to Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter returned to his modest Plains home, becoming the first president to live full-time in the house he owned before entering politics. He eschewed wealth and prestige, focusing instead on humanitarian efforts and global issues such as poverty, disease, and conflict resolution.

In 1982, Carter founded The Carter Center, which has championed democracy, human rights, and public health initiatives worldwide. He partnered with Nelson Mandela to establish The Elders, a group of global leaders dedicated to peace and justice.

President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden described Carter as an extraordinary leader and humanitarian, emphasizing his principles of faith, humility, and compassion. Former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama highlighted his tireless efforts to serve others and his enduring commitment to justice and dignity.

Republican former President George W. Bush commended Jimmy Carter for his dignity during his time in office and his unwavering dedication to creating a better world. Leaders from across the political spectrum joined in paying tribute to Carter, highlighting his unique ability to inspire through his humility, decency, and lifelong commitment to service.

Carter leaves behind a large and loving family, including his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023. Reflecting on his father’s legacy, Chip Carter described him as a hero who brought people together through his deep devotion to peace and love.

Even after leaving the presidency, Carter remained a powerful symbol of modesty and integrity. He spent decades working with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for the underserved, and addressing global challenges through his advocacy and writings. In his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, he identified the growing divide between the rich and poor as humanity’s most urgent issue, underscoring his enduring commitment to social justice.

The passing of Jimmy Carter marks the conclusion of an extraordinary life dedicated to public service, from his tenure as a global leader in the White House to his grassroots efforts advocating for peace, human rights, and equality. A state funeral is planned in Washington, D.C., to commemorate his profound contributions to the United States and the world, celebrating a legacy that transcended politics and inspired countless individuals across generations.