Jimmy Carter, the longest-living U.S. president, passed away Sunday at 100. He entered hospice care in Plains, Georgia, in February 2023 after several brief hospitalizations.
The only Georgian elected to the White House, Carter’s single term included the landmark Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt but was marred by the Iran hostage crisis. Post-presidency, he and Rosalynn Carter enhanced his legacy through the Carter Center and causes like Habitat for Humanity, earning him a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Born October 1, 1924, in Plains, Carter served in the Navy before returning home in 1953 to take over the family farm after his father’s death. He entered politics, becoming governor in 1970 and winning the presidency in 1976.
Carter’s presidency focused on human rights, environmental conservation, and restoring trust post-Watergate. However, domestic economic struggles and international crises, like the failed Iran hostage rescue, contributed to his 1980 defeat.
Returning to Plains, Carter used his post-presidency to champion peace, health, and democracy worldwide. He and Rosalynn, his wife of 77 years who passed in November 2023, were both awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Carter is survived by four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
