Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, has passed away at the age of 100. His death follows his decision in February 2023 to enter hospice care and spend his final days with family after a series of health challenges. Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter grew up on a peanut farm before attending the U.S. Naval Academy. Serving in the Navy, he specialized in submarine duty, eventually rising to the rank of lieutenant. The Navy honored his legacy by commissioning the nuclear-powered submarine USS Jimmy Carter in 2005.
Carter entered politics in 1962 as a Georgia state senator and gained national attention as a little-known governor when he launched his presidential campaign for the 1976 election. Running as a Washington outsider in the aftermath of the Vietnam War and Watergate scandal, he defeated incumbent Gerald Ford. However, his presidency was marked by challenges, including economic struggles and the Iran hostage crisis, leading to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980. Despite his single term, Carter left a lasting mark on international diplomacy, notably brokering the Camp David Accords in 1978 between Egypt and Israel.
After leaving office, Carter devoted his life to humanitarian work. He and his wife, Rosalynn, founded The Carter Center in 1982, focusing on promoting democracy, monitoring elections, and combating diseases in developing nations. Widely respected for his commitment to human rights, Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global advocacy. The Carters also volunteered extensively with Habitat for Humanity, building homes for those in need from 1984 to 2020, even as they aged and faced health challenges.
Jimmy Carter became the oldest living U.S. president in history, overcoming significant health issues, including melanoma and injuries from falls. He and Rosalynn shared a remarkable 77-year marriage, the longest of any presidential couple. Rosalynn passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96, preceding Carter by just over a month. Their enduring partnership and commitment to service remain a profound part of their legacy.
