A Legacy of Service Ends
Former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away at age 100, his office confirmed on Sunday. Carter, who dedicated decades of his life to humanitarian efforts and international peace, had been in hospice care since February 2023 at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he lived with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. Rosalynn passed away just weeks earlier, on November 19, 2023.
A Historic Milestone
Carter was the first U.S. president to reach 100 years of age. His milestone birthday in October 2023 was marked by tributes, including one from President Joe Biden, who called Carter a "moral force" and "beloved friend."
National Mourning Declared
President Biden has ordered a state funeral in Washington and declared January 9 as a national day of mourning. Federal offices will close on that day to honor Carter’s life and legacy.
Presidency and Challenges
A Georgia native and Democrat, Carter won the presidency in 1976, defeating Republican Gerald Ford in the wake of the Watergate scandal. His administration was marked by efforts to promote human rights and broker peace, but it faced challenges, including the 444-day Iran hostage crisis. Carter lost his 1980 re-election bid to Ronald Reagan.
Despite leaving office with low approval ratings, Carter's post-presidency work reshaped his legacy, earning him recognition as one of America’s greatest ex-presidents.
Humanitarian Impact
Carter’s lifelong commitment to service was evident through his work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, where he and Rosalynn were frequently seen building homes for those in need. He also established the Carter Center in 1982, a nonprofit focused on promoting democracy, resolving conflicts, and eradicating diseases.
Through the Carter Center, he monitored elections worldwide, advocated for human rights, and led initiatives to combat illnesses like Guinea worm disease, which he nearly eradicated.
Global Peacemaker
Carter’s peacemaking efforts extended across the globe. In the 1980s and 1990s, he negotiated the release of prisoners in Nicaragua, helped broker agreements in North Korea, and mediated conflicts in Africa. These efforts culminated in his receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his dedication to finding peaceful solutions to international disputes.
Tributes from Leaders
Bill and Hillary Clinton joined the tributes, highlighting Carter’s commitment to civil rights and global peace. “Guided by his faith, President Carter lived to serve others — until the very end,” they wrote, praising his achievements and the inspiration he provided to generations.
A Lasting Example
Jimmy Carter’s life serves as a testament to the power of humility, service, and determination. From his tenure in the Oval Office to decades spent promoting peace and aiding those in need, Carter leaves behind a legacy of compassion and leadership that will be remembered for generations.
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