Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter Dies at 100 After a Life of Service
Jimmy Carter, the humble peanut farmer from Georgia who became the 39th president of the United States, passed away at 100 years old on Sunday in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, according to the Carter Center. Reuters reports that Carter’s legacy is a mix of challenges as president and extraordinary achievements as a global humanitarian.
Carter’s presidency, from 1977 to 1981, faced difficulties like a struggling economy and the Iran hostage crisis, which overshadowed his successes, including the historic peace deal between Israel and Egypt. According to Reuters, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his work promoting peace, democracy, and human rights around the world.
Chip Carter, his son, described him as a hero not just to their family but to all who value peace and compassion. “He brought people together, and we hope his memory inspires everyone to keep these shared beliefs alive,” he said, as reported by Reuters.
While Carter’s time in office ended with low approval ratings, Reuters highlights how he earned admiration as a former president. He dedicated his later years to causes like fighting poverty, resolving conflicts, and monitoring elections globally through the Carter Center.
Carter’s defining moment as president was the 1978 Camp David Accords, which brought peace between Egypt and Israel, Reuters explains. However, his presidency was also marked by challenges, including the 1979 Iran hostage crisis, where 52 Americans were held captive for 444 days. The hostages were released minutes after Ronald Reagan succeeded him as president in 1981.
In recent years, Carter faced health issues, including cancer, and opted for hospice care in early 2023. His wife, Rosalynn, passed away just weeks earlier in November 2023 at 96. Reuters notes the couple’s remarkable 77-year marriage and their shared commitment to making the world a better place.
Carter’s life journey—from a naval officer and peanut farmer to Georgia’s governor and then president—reflected his deep commitment to public service. Reuters recounts his promise during his campaign: “I will never lie to you,” a pledge that resonated during a time of distrust after the Watergate scandal.
Despite his struggles in the White House, Carter’s post-presidency work earned him global respect. Reuters emphasizes his role as a moral leader, advocating for the underprivileged and promoting peaceful solutions worldwide. His writings, including over two dozen books, showcased his passion for faith, diplomacy, and storytelling.
Jimmy Carter leaves behind a legacy of humility, resilience, and unwavering dedication to humanity. Public tributes are planned in Atlanta and Washington, with a private burial in Plains, according to the Carter Center and Reuters.
Credit : Reuters