December 29, 2024 — James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th president of the United States, passed away today at the age of 100. Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, was a prominent figure in American politics and the longest-lived president in U.S. history.
His son, Chip Carter confirmed that the former president died at his home in Plains about 3:45 p.m.
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and served in the Navy’s submarine service before returning home to take over his family’s peanut farming business. A vocal opponent of racial segregation, he became an activist within the Democratic Party, serving in the Georgia State Senate from 1963 to 1967 and as governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975.
Carter’s rise to national prominence began as a dark-horse candidate in the 1976 presidential election, where he narrowly defeated incumbent President Gerald Ford. Upon taking office, he made headlines by pardoning all Vietnam War draft evaders on his second day and implementing a national energy policy focused on conservation and new technologies.
His presidency was marked by significant achievements, including the Camp David Accords and the Panama Canal Treaties. However, he also faced challenges such as stagflation and the Iran hostage crisis, which overshadowed his final years in office. Despite winning the Democratic primaries against Ted Kennedy in 1980, he lost the general election in a landslide to Ronald Reagan.
Carter’s legacy extends beyond his presidency; he remained active in humanitarian efforts and global peace initiatives through the Carter Center after leaving office. His commitment to social justice, human rights, and democracy made him a respected elder statesman in both national and international circles.
Carter’s life and work will be remembered as a testament to his enduring influence on American politics and society. Further tributes and memorials are expected as the nation reflects on his contributions.
