[Photo Credits to Pixabay]

Former United States President Jimmy Carter, whose post-presidential legacy of humanitarian work earned him a Nobel Peace Prize, passed away on December 29th, 2024, in his hometown Plains, Georgia. 

He was 100 years old.

Before his rise to the nation’s highest office, Carter served as a submariner in the US Navy, attaining the rank of lieutenant before resigning in 1953 after seven years of service.

Upon returning home to Georgia, he took over his father’s business and farm, later winning a seat in the state Senate in 1963.

His political ascent continued as he became Georgia’s governor in 1971 and the Democratic National Committee campaign chair in 1974.

After announcing his presidential candidacy on December 12, 1974, Carter secured the Democratic nomination and went on to defeat incumbent Republican President Gerald R. Ford in the 1976 election.

Carter’s presidency, from January 20, 1977 to January 20, 1981, is particularly notable for its achievements in international politics.

His administration successfully brokered the Panamá Canal treaties - shifting ownership of the Panamá canals from US control to the Panamians; the Camp David Accords, establishing peace between Israel and Egypt, making Egypt as the first Middle Eastern country to recognize the Israeli state; and the SALT II Treaty, limiting nuclear arms between the US and Soviet Union. 

In addition, his administration shifted US recognition from Taiwan to the People’s Republic of China. 

After leaving office, Carter established himself as University Distinguished Professor at Emory University and founded the Carter Center with his wife, Rosalynn.

The center has since become a global force for human rights, mediating conflicts in North Korea, Haiti, the Middle East, and beyond.

In 2002, the former president was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize “for his decades of untiring effort” and dedication to peace, development, and human rights. 

The Carters’ commitment to public service extended to Habitat for Humanity, where they volunteered weekly, helping construct new homes for those in need.

After his wife of 77 years passed away in 2023, Carter retired from the public eye to the comforts of his home, where he received hospice care in Plains for 22 months before his death.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum.

President Joe Biden lamented Carter as an “extraordinary leader, statesman and humanitarian.”