Jimmy Carter, former US President and Nobel Laureate, dies at 100
PTC Web Desk: Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away at the age of 100 on December 29. Carter died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family, according to the Carter Center. A former peanut farmer and governor, Carter rose from modest beginnings in rural Georgia to lead the nation from 1977 to 1981.
Carter had been in hospice care since February 2023 at his home—the same small town where he was born and lived most of his life. His eldest son, Chip Carter, described him as "a hero" to those who cherish peace, human rights, and selfless love.
At 100, Carter holds the record as the longest-lived US President. His longevity defied expectations, particularly after he announced in 2015 that he had brain cancer. A US Navy veteran and devout Christian, Carter lived a life driven by faith and public service.
During his presidency, Carter placed a strong emphasis on human rights, social justice, and diplomacy. Notably, he brokered the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt in 1978, a landmark peace agreement that earned him international acclaim.
However, his tenure faced significant challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and an oil shortage that tested the nation’s patience. These setbacks contributed to his loss to Ronald Reagan in the 1980 presidential election.
Carter’s post-presidency cemented his legacy as a global humanitarian. In 1982, he established the Carter Center, which focused on advancing democracy, human rights, and public health worldwide. He monitored elections in dozens of countries, mediated international disputes, and tirelessly campaigned for social and economic justice.
His work earned him the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, recognising his efforts in promoting peaceful solutions to global conflicts. Carter’s commitment to service extended to teaching Sunday school at his church in Plains, a practice he continued into his 90s.
Tributes pour in for a remarkable leader
Leaders worldwide lauded Carter for his lifetime achievements. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi praised him as “a symbol of humanitarian efforts” for his pivotal role in the Camp David Accords. Former US Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama highlighted Carter’s unwavering dedication to justice, peace, and service.
Current President Joe Biden called Carter “an extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian” whose life exemplified purpose, faith, and humility. The Biden family had visited Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, at their home in 2021, marking one of Carter’s final public appearances. Carter’s passing comes just over a year after the death of Rosalynn Carter, his wife of 77 years, in November 2023. She was 96. The couple’s enduring partnership was a cornerstone of Carter’s life and work.
Jimmy Carter is survived by their four children—three sons and a daughter—and several grandchildren. His legacy lives on through his family and the ongoing work of the Carter Center.
- With inputs from agencies
