Jimmy Carter, the dedicated peanut farmer from Georgia who served as the U.S. president during challenging times marked by economic difficulties and the Iran hostage crisis, passed away at his residence in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday. He was 100 years old.
Carter, a member of the Democratic Party, assumed the presidency in January 1977 after winning the 1976 election against the incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford. His single term in office was highlighted by the landmark Camp David accords in 1978, which fostered a degree of stability between Israel and Egypt in the Middle East.
However, his presidency was also characterized by an economic downturn, ongoing unpopularity, and the Iran hostage crisis, which dominated the last 444 days of his administration. In the 1980 election, Carter sought re-election but was decisively defeated by Republican challenger Ronald Reagan, a former actor and governor of California.
Carter holds the distinction of being the longest-living U.S. president and, following his departure from the White House, he gained recognition as a devoted humanitarian. Many regarded him as a more effective former president than during his time in office, a sentiment he openly acknowledged.
World leaders and former U.S. presidents have expressed their condolences, honoring him as a compassionate, humble individual dedicated to peace in the Middle East.
“His pivotal contribution to the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will be forever remembered in history,” remarked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in a statement on X.
The Carter Center announced that public memorials will take place in Atlanta and Washington, followed by a private burial in Plains. Details regarding the former president’s state funeral are still being finalized, according to the center.
In recent years, Carter faced numerous health challenges, including melanoma that metastasized to his liver and brain. In February 2023, he opted for hospice care rather than pursuing further medical treatments. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96. At her memorial service and funeral, he appeared frail, using wheelchair for support.
Carter left the presidency with low approval ratings but dedicated himself for decades to humanitarian efforts. In 2002, he was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for his relentless commitment to achieving peaceful resolutions to global conflicts, promoting democracy and human rights, and fostering economic and social development.
As the 39th president of the United States, Carter had a centrist approach during his tenure as governor of Georgia, characterized by populist inclinations. He entered the White House as a political outsider during a period when the nation was still grappling with the aftermath of the Watergate scandal, which resulted in the resignation of Republican President Richard Nixon in 1974 and the subsequent elevation of Gerald Ford from the vice presidency.
