James Earl Carter Jr., known as Jimmy Carter, was born on October 1, 1924 in Plains, Georgia. The son of James Sr. and Lillian Gordy Carter, his life was marked by a commitment to public service and a tireless pursuit of peace. Here is a look back at the highlights of his life and legacy.
Beginnings and Military Service
Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and soon joined the Navy, where he worked on the nuclear submarine program. In 1946, he married Rosalynn Smith, with whom he had four children: Jack, Chip, Donnel and Amy. After his father’s death, Carter left the Navy in 1953 and returned to Plains to take over the family peanut plantation.
Political Career
In the 1960s, Carter became involved in Georgia politics. After a failed gubernatorial bid in 1966, he succeeded in being elected governor in 1970. During his term (1971-1975), he was noted for his progressive policies. In 1974, he announced his presidential pre-candidacy and in 1976 he was proclaimed candidate of the Democratic Party, choosing Senator Walter Mondale as his running mate.
James Carter Presidency (1977-1981)
Carter assumed the presidency on January 20, 1977, beginning his term with a focus on reconciliation and morality in politics. One of his first acts was to pardon those who had evaded military service during the Vietnam War.
During his presidency, Carter was prominent in signing key agreements such as the Panama Canal Treaties in 1977 and the Camp David Accords in 1978, which achieved a historic peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.
Challenges and the End of his Term
However, his presidency was also marked by difficult times. The Iran hostage crisis, which lasted more than a year, and the mass migration of Cubans in 1980 were among the events that overshadowed his administration. In the November 1980 elections, Carter was defeated by Ronald Reagan, who obtained 51.6% of the popular vote.
After the Presidency
After leaving the White House, Carter devoted his life to philanthropy and conflict resolution. In 1982, he founded The Carter Center, whose purpose was to promote peace, human rights and development. He was involved in numerous international diplomatic efforts, including mediation in North Korea, Haiti and Bosnia. In 2002, he received the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless work in promoting peace and human rights.
Awards and Final Years
Carter received multiple awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Despite facing health issues in his later years, including a cancer diagnosis in 2015, he continued his humanitarian work. In 2019, he surpassed George H. W. Bush as the longest-serving president in U.S. history.
In October 2024, he celebrated his 100th birthday at home with his family and close friends. Finally, on December 29, 2024, Jimmy Carter passed away at home, leaving an indelible legacy of peace, humility and service.
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