A Tribute to Jimmy Carter

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On December 29, 2024, the world bid farewell to former American president Jimmy Carter. He passed away peacefully at 100, making him the longest-living president in American history. As an esteemed former president and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his political career and is rooted in his commitment to humanitarianism. 

Carter was born in 1924 in Georgia and spent his early years in the Navy before beginning his political career. Carter served as a member of the local board of education, the Georgia state senate, and the governor before running as the presidential candidate. Following the disorienting Watergate scandal in 1972, Carter presented himself to the public as a moral man in comparison to his predecessor Richard Nixon, leading him to success. His presidency from 1977 to 1981 saw significant advancements to the security status of the Middle East. Carter contributed to the historic David Accords which established peace between Israel and Egypt as well as signing the Panama Canal Treaties to withdraw American ownership of the canal by the year 2000. 

Even after leaving office, Carter dedicated himself to humanitarian efforts, establishing The Carter Center in 1982. The center became a global advocate for human rights and conflict resolution. Carter’s contributions also included discussions regarding North Korean disarmament talks and ceasefires in both Bosnia and Sudan. He received numerous awards, from the U.N. Human Rights Prize in 1998 to the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his dedication to promoting peace and human dignity during and after his presidency. 

He remained active in The Carter Center and Habitat for Humanity until his passing in 2024 (PBS). He passed away in the same city of his birth surrounded by loved ones. 

Carter’s long life was commemorated by many, with a 2021 poll by CBS suggesting that over 50% of Americans old enough to remember Carter found him favorable. Similarly, former presidents Joe Biden, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and many more renowned figures have openly admired and respected Former President Carter. 

President Biden praised Carter for how “he saved, lifted, and changed the lives of people all across the globe.” Former vice president Kamala Harris also remarked that “our world is a better place because of President Carter.” (CBS)