Former US President Jimmy Carter Dies at 100
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, has passed away at the age of 100, the Carter Center confirmed.
The former peanut farmer, who served from 1977 to 1981, celebrated his centennial birthday in October and lived longer than any president in U.S. history.
He died on Sunday afternoon at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family.
Carter’s presidency was marked by economic challenges, diplomatic crises, and the Iran hostage crisis. Despite a turbulent tenure and a landslide defeat in the 1980 election, Carter’s post-presidential years redefined his legacy.
His humanitarian efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, highlighting his lifelong dedication to peace, human rights, and alleviating global inequality.
Chip Carter, his son, reflected on his father’s impact, stating, “He was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.”
Carter is survived by his four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren. His wife, Rosalynn, passed away in November 2023 after 77 years of marriage.
Since 2018, Carter had been the oldest surviving U.S. president, and in recent months, he had stopped medical treatment in favor of hospice care.
Tributes poured in from leaders across the political spectrum. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden mourned the loss of an “extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian,” emphasizing Carter’s moral leadership.
Former Presidents Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush also paid tribute, highlighting his unwavering commitment to service, justice, and global peace.
Carter’s post-presidential years were characterized by his refusal to pursue personal wealth. Instead, he dedicated himself to global causes through The Elders, an organization he co-founded with Nelson Mandela to advocate for peace and human rights.
A state funeral will be held in Washington, D.C., to honor his legacy.
Source: BBC News
