Former US President Jimmy Carter has passed away at the age of 100, as confirmed by his foundation, the Carter Center. Serving from 1977 to 1981, Carter was the longest-living US president in history.
Born in Plains, Georgia, on October 1, 1924, Carter grew up in a segregated South and entered politics as a progressive advocate for civil rights. As governor of Georgia, he declared, “the time for racial discrimination is over,” and appointed African Americans to public office.
In 1976, Carter was elected president after campaigning as an outsider, promising honesty and integrity. His presidency focused on human rights, climate change, and peace efforts. He brokered the historic Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel but faced struggles with the Iran hostage crisis and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
Carter was defeated in 1980 by Ronald Reagan but later restored his reputation through humanitarian work, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. He worked tirelessly on global peace and human rights, founding The Elders with Nelson Mandela.
Known for his modest lifestyle, Carter spent his later years in Plains, Georgia, where he and his wife, Rosalynn, contributed to Habitat for Humanity. Despite facing health challenges, including cancer, Carter remained active, teaching Sunday school and volunteering.
Carter’s legacy is defined by his dedication to public service, rooted in his deep Christian faith and commitment to justice.