Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a global champion of peace and human rights, has passed away at the age of 100. The Carter Center announced his death on Sunday, confirming that he died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family.
Carter, who served as president from 1977 to 1981, was the longest-lived U.S. president in history and an enduring figure of humility, compassion, and dedication to humanitarian causes.
A Life of Service and Legacy Beyond the Presidency
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter rose from a modest upbringing to become a Naval officer, peanut farmer, and ultimately, the governor of Georgia before winning the presidency in 1976. His single term in office was marked by significant foreign policy challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and the Camp David Accords, a landmark peace agreement between Egypt and Israel.
Although he was defeated in his bid for re-election by Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter’s legacy extended far beyond his time in the White House. His post-presidential life became a beacon of humanitarian work, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his tireless efforts in promoting democracy, human rights, and peace through the Carter Center.
Family and Tributes
Carter is survived by his four children—Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy—as well as 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023, and one grandchild.
Chip Carter, his son, reflected on his father’s legacy:
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. He brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”
Health Struggles and Peaceful Passing
Carter’s health had been in decline in recent years. In 2015, he revealed he was battling melanoma that had spread to his liver and brain. Despite his diagnosis, Carter continued to live a life dedicated to service and humility, receiving hospice care at home in his final months.
Global Tributes Pour In
Leaders and citizens from around the world have expressed their condolences, highlighting Carter’s profound impact on humanitarian efforts. President Joe Biden, in a statement, said:
“Jimmy Carter was a man of the highest integrity, guided by faith and love for his fellow man. His dedication to peace and justice will be remembered for generations.”
The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described him as “a tireless advocate for the vulnerable and a true global statesman.”
A Legacy That Will Endure
Jimmy Carter’s legacy transcends political boundaries. From his commitment to eradicating disease and poverty through the Carter Center to his hands-on work with Habitat for Humanity, Carter’s life was a testament to the power of compassion and action. His memory serves as an enduring example of leadership rooted in kindness, integrity, and a commitment to the betterment of humanity.
