The oldest living Former President Jimmy Carter, Dies at the age of 100
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a lifelong advocate for peace and human rights, has died at the age of 100, his office confirmed on Sunday. Carter, who had been in hospice care since February 2023, passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, where he spent his final days with his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter. Rosalynn preceded him in death on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96.
Carter’s 100th birthday in October 2024 marked a historic milestone, as he became the first U.S. president to reach the century mark. President Joe Biden paid tribute in a heartfelt message shared with CBS News, saying, “Mr. President, you’ve always been a moral force for our nation and the world… You’re a voice of courage, conviction, compassion, and most of all, a beloved friend.”
A Humble Rise to the Presidency
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter was the first American president to be born in a hospital. He entered the political arena after a successful career as a peanut farmer and a U.S. Navy officer. In 1976, Carter, a Democrat, defeated incumbent Republican Gerald Ford in the wake of the Watergate scandal, becoming a symbol of honesty and integrity.
Carter’s presidency was marked by notable achievements, including the Camp David Accords, which brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, and his emphasis on human rights as a cornerstone of foreign policy. However, his administration faced significant challenges, including a struggling economy and the 444-day Iran hostage crisis, which ultimately contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan.
A Nobel Laureate and “America’s Greatest Ex-President”
At just 56 years old when he left office, Carter dedicated the next four decades to humanitarian work, earning him the title of “America’s greatest ex-president.” In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to promote peace, democracy, and human rights worldwide.
Through the Carter Center, established in 1982 at Emory University, Carter and his wife spearheaded initiatives to combat diseases, monitor elections, and advance social justice globally. The center’s work impacted millions, from eradicating Guinea worm disease to fostering fair elections in developing nations.
The Carters also became synonymous with Habitat for Humanity, often seen on construction sites building homes for those in need. Their hands-on approach inspired countless others to join in efforts to combat housing insecurity.
A Legacy of Compassion
Despite leaving the presidency with low approval ratings, Carter’s post-White House life transformed his public image. He became a figure of humility, integrity, and service, a leader who lived by the principles he preached.
Carter’s devotion to his faith and humanity left an indelible mark on the nation and the world. As tributes pour in, he will be remembered as a statesman, a humanitarian, and a moral compass during turbulent times.
Jimmy Carter is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who continue to carry on his legacy of compassion and service.
“My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I can, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference,” Carter once said. His life’s work is a testament to those words.