Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize recipient, has passed away at the age of 100 at his Georgia residence. A statesman who epitomised humility and dedication, Carter’s legacy as a champion of human rights and peace will remain unparalleled.
The former President, who held office from 1977 to 1981, was renowned for his efforts to broker the historic Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, earning him widespread admiration on the global stage.
However, his presidency was marred by economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis, leading to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election.
Born in Plains, Georgia, Carter rose to prominence as a peanut farmer who ascended to the highest political office in the United States.
His entry into the White House in 1977 came at a tumultuous time, as the nation grappled with the aftermath of the Watergate scandal. In his post-presidential years, Carter emerged as an extraordinary humanitarian, dedicating his life to resolving international conflicts, advancing democracy, and alleviating poverty.
“My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love,” Chip Carter, his son, said in a heartfelt statement. “The world is our family because of the way he brought people together.”
Carter’s humanitarian work earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His initiatives included eradicating diseases, mediating conflicts, and advocating for human rights. He established the Carter Centre, which became a beacon for global health and democracy promotion.
Health struggles and a peaceful passing
In recent years, Carter faced multiple health issues, including melanoma that had spread to his liver and brain. In 2023, he opted for hospice care, choosing comfort over further medical interventions. Despite his frailty, Carter attended the funeral of his wife, Rosalynn, in November 2023. Rosalynn, his lifelong companion and steadfast supporter, passed away at the age of 96.
Jimmy Carter’s longevity is unmatched, making him the longest-lived US President in history. Even as his physical strength waned, his resolve to champion the causes of justice and compassion remained undiminished.
Tributes
US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden paid tribute, calling him an “extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian”. “Jimmy Carter was not just a dear friend to us but to millions around the globe who believed in his vision of peace and equity,” President Biden remarked
Former President Donald Trump also extended his condolences, stating, “The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country, and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we owe him a debt of gratitude.”
Carter’s presidency, though criticised for its perceived lack of forcefulness, is now regarded as a period marked by integrity and a refusal to compromise on ethics.
In a 1991 documentary, Carter reflected, “The biggest failure we had was a political failure. I never was able to convince the American people that I was a forceful and strong leader.”
However, his post-presidential years transformed him into a figure of global reverence. From building homes for the needy through Habitat for Humanity to spearheading campaigns against hunger and disease, Carter’s work uplifted countless lives.
The Carter Centre, established in 1982, remains a testament to his unwavering commitment to creating a better world.
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