Carter, who was born in 1924, held a varied career as a naval officer, farmer, and governor of Georgia before becoming president in 1977. His presidency, which lasted until 1981, was marked by both challenges and achievements.
During his term, Carter emphasized human rights in foreign policy, brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, and oversaw the creation of the Department of Energy.
However, his tenure faced economic difficulties, rising inflation, and the Iran hostage crisis, which significantly impacted his political standing. Carter lost his reelection bid in 1980 to Ronald Reagan.
After leaving office, Carter dedicated his life to global humanitarian efforts. He and his wife, Rosalynn, founded The Carter Center in 1982 to promote democracy, human rights, and public health.
The center monitored elections worldwide, worked to combat diseases, and advocated for peace. Carter also played a key role in establishing The Elders, a group of global leaders addressing critical world issues. His efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Carter’s work extended to Africa, where he focused on health initiatives such as eradicating Guinea worm disease and promoting peace. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi praised Carter’s role in achieving the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel, describing it as a significant historical milestone.
Known for his modest lifestyle, Carter spent his post-presidency years in the same two-bedroom home he lived in before his political career. He authored several books on topics ranging from faith to diplomacy, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service and advocacy.
Carter is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. His wife of 77 years, Rosalynn, passed away in November 2023. Public observances in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., will honor his legacy, followed by a private interment in Plains, Georgia.
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