Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, renowned for his humanitarian efforts and awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, passed away at his home in Plains, Georgia, on Sunday. He was 100.
President Joe Biden has declared January 9 a national day of mourning, urging Americans to honor Carter’s legacy through reflection and prayer. “I call on the American people to pay homage to the memory of President James Earl Carter,” Biden said in a statement.
Carter, a Democrat, served from 1977 to 1981. His presidency was marked by landmark achievements, including the 1978 Camp David Accords that brought peace between Israel and Egypt. However, his tenure was overshadowed by economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis, which marred his reelection bid in 1980.
Despite leaving office unpopular, Carter transformed his post-presidency into a platform for global humanitarian work. Through the Carter Center, he championed human rights, advanced democratic governance, and fought diseases like Guinea worm. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts to promote peace and human dignity.
World leaders praised Carter for his commitment to peace and compassion. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi lauded his role in the historic Israel-Egypt peace treaty, calling it “a milestone in history.”
Public observances in Carter’s honor are planned in Atlanta and Washington, followed by a private burial in Plains.
Carter, who chose hospice care in February 2023, endured several health challenges, including melanoma. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away in November 2023 at age 96.
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter rose from a peanut farmer to a U.S. Navy officer and later to a political career as Georgia’s governor before ascending to the presidency. His faith and moral integrity were central to his leadership, which he carried into his advocacy work after leaving the White House.
Though his presidency faced criticism, Carter’s post-presidential achievements cemented his legacy as a global advocate for peace and justice.
