Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a Nobel Peace Prize recipient, has died at the age of 100 at his home in Plains, Georgia, his son James E. “Chip” Carter III confirmed. Known for his humility and dedication to humanitarian causes, Carter’s death marks the end of a remarkable life that transitioned from the White House to a legacy of global advocacy.
Carter’s son announced his passing but did not disclose an immediate cause. Earlier, in February 2023, the Carter Center revealed that the former president had entered hospice care after a series of hospitalizations, choosing to spend his remaining days at home. Carter had faced health challenges, including melanoma that spread to his liver and brain in recent years.
His wife, Rosalynn Carter, with whom he shared a 77-year marriage—the longest in U.S. presidential history—passed away just weeks earlier in November 2023. Jimmy Carter’s final public appearance was at Rosalynn’s funeral, where he sat in a wheelchair, surrounded by family and admirers.
A Humble Leader With Global Impact
Born in Plains, Georgia, Carter began his career as a peanut farmer and rose to prominence as a U.S. Navy officer and governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975. Elected as president in 1976, he became the first Southern Democrat to hold the office since the Civil War era. His single term in office was marked by both achievements and challenges, from the groundbreaking Camp David Accords to economic struggles and the Iran hostage crisis.
Although his presidency was criticized at the time for economic instability and foreign policy setbacks, Carter’s post-presidential life reshaped his legacy. He dedicated decades to promoting human rights, conflict resolution, and global health through the Carter Center, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts.
Legacy of Leadership and Advocacy
Carter’s presidency laid the groundwork for significant achievements, including the establishment of the Department of Energy, the Department of Education, and the landmark Camp David Accords, which forged a lasting peace between Egypt and Israel. Despite facing criticism for policies that were sometimes ahead of their time—such as his push for renewable energy and environmental conservation—Carter’s vision has been increasingly recognized by historians.
In his later years, Carter focused on humanitarian efforts, including eradicating diseases like Guinea worm and promoting free elections worldwide. He and Rosalynn were also known for their hands-on involvement with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for those in need well into their advanced age.
A Life Celebrated by Family and the World
Carter is survived by his four children, Jack, Chip, Jeff, and Amy, along with 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. In a heartfelt statement, Chip Carter called his father “a hero who embodied peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” adding that the world is better for his unyielding dedication to bringing people together.
From the peanut fields of Georgia to the global stage, Jimmy Carter’s life was a testament to humility, perseverance, and service. As the nation reflects on his extraordinary journey, his legacy as a statesman and humanitarian will endure for generations.
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