| James Earl Carter | |
 Jimmy Carter (aged 53) in 1978, his official portrait | |
| Birth: | 1 October 1924 Plains, Georgia, USA |
| Age: | 100 years, 3 days |
| Country: |  USA
|
| Centenarian | |
James Earl "Jimmy" Carter Jr. (born 1 October 1924) is an American politician, Social activist, Humanitarian, Nobel Prize winner (2002), and centenarian, who served as the 39th President of the United States (1977-1981) and notable for being the first Former U.S President to reach a 3-digit age.
Biography[]
Jimmy Carter was born in Plains, Georgia, USA, on October 1, 1924. Raised on a peanut farm, Carter learned the values of hard work and community service from an early age. His father was a farmer and businessman, while his mother worked as a nurse. These humble beginnings in the rural South shaped much of his character and later political philosophy.
In his early life, Carter attended the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in 1946. He served in the Navy, specializing in submarines, but left military service in 1953 after his father's death to take over the family farm. This marked a pivotal transition from military life to community involvement. He married Rosalynn Smith in 1946, and together they raised four children: Jack, James III, Donnel, and Amy.
Political Career[]
Carter's political career began in Georgia, where he served as a state senator from 1963 to 1967 and then as governor from 1971 to 1975. As governor, he gained national attention for advocating for civil rights and integrating Georgia’s schools.
In 1976, Carter ran for the U.S. presidency as a Democrat and was elected the 39th President of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981. His presidency is remembered for significant accomplishments, including the Camp David Accords, which brokered peace between Egypt and Israel, and his focus on human rights and energy conservation. However, his administration faced challenges, including the Iranian hostage crisis and an economic downturn.
Post-Presidency and Humanitarian Work[]
After leaving the White House in 1981, Carter dedicated himself to global humanitarian work. He founded the Carter Center in 1982, an organization that promotes democracy, human rights, and global health initiatives. One of his most notable efforts has been his work to eradicate the Guinea worm disease, which has been largely successful.
Carter also became involved in various diplomatic efforts, often serving as an election observer and mediator in international conflicts. His commitment to peace and justice earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Centenarian Years and Later[]
Jimmy Carter's longevity and dedication to public service continued well into his later years. Even in his 90s, he remained active, teaching Sunday school at his local church and participating in Habitat for Humanity projects. In 2015, at the age of 91, Carter announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer, but after treatment, he recovered and continued his public engagements.
By 2023, as he approached his 100th birthday, Carter’s health began to decline, and he entered hospice care in 2023. Despite his health issues, he remained a beloved figure both in the U.S. and internationally. Throughout this period, his family, including his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, remained close by his side.
In October 2024, Carter celebrated his 100th birthday, becoming the first former US president to become a centenarian.
Legacy[]
Jimmy Carter’s long life has been defined by his integrity, commitment to peace, and tireless work for the betterment of humanity. He once attributed his longevity to his faith, a healthy lifestyle, and his strong relationship with his wife, Rosalynn, to whom he has been married for over seven decades. His dedication to human rights, conflict resolution, and community service continues to inspire people around the world.
Today, Jimmy Carter remains the longest-living U.S. president in American history.
Gallery[]
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References[]
- Jimmy Carter turns 100, the first former president to do so Cbsnews, 1 October 2024
- Jimmy Carter and his hometown of Plains celebrate the 39th president’s 100th birthday Apnews, 2 October 2024