The 39th U.S. president, Nobel laureate, and enduring advocate for peace and democracy passed away peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and global impact (Photo Credit: LBJ Library/AFP pic under a CC BY 4.0 license).
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a towering figure in modern American history, died Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100 years old. The Carter Center confirmed his peaceful passing, surrounded by family, marking the end of an extraordinary life dedicated to service and advocating for human rights.
Our founder, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, passed away this afternoon in Plains, Georgia. pic.twitter.com/aqYmcE9tXi
— The Carter Center (@CarterCenter) December 29, 2024
Born Oct. 1, 1924, in the rural farming town of Plains, Carter rose from humble beginnings as the son of a peanut farmer to become a naval officer, state governor, president and global humanitarian. Along the way, he redefined the scope of public service and set a standard for post-presidential impact that remains unparalleled.
Bold aspirations and turbulent times marked Carter’s tenure in the White House from 1977 to 1981. He championed energy reform, human rights, and government efficiency as president. His administration expanded the national park system, deregulated industries like trucking and airlines, and created the Department of Education. However, his presidency faced daunting challenges, including an energy crisis, rising inflation, and the Iran hostage crisis.
Jimmy Carter sitting in the Oval Office (Public Domain).
On the global stage, Carter brokered the historic Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, established diplomatic ties with China, and pursued nuclear arms control through the SALT II treaty. While these efforts elevated his legacy, setbacks like the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and the Iranian hostage crisis contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election.
After leaving office, Carter built an enduring legacy as a tireless advocate for peace, democracy, and human rights. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, he mediated conflicts, monitored elections, and championed causes from disease eradication to affordable housing. Into his 90s, he could be found wielding a hammer at Habitat for Humanity sites, embodying the active citizenship he so deeply believed in.
Carter’s commitment to human rights defined his approach to leadership. From condemning abuses in Soviet-dominated Eastern Europe to linking foreign aid to human rights records, his administration signaled a moral shift in U.S. foreign policy. Though controversial at times, Carter’s emphasis on ethical diplomacy inspired future leaders and elevated the global conversation on human dignity.
In Plains, Carter and his wife Rosalynn—who preceded him in death at age 96—remained deeply rooted in their faith and community. The couple, married for 77 years, shared a love that underpinned their life’s work. Together, they raised four children and built a legacy of compassion and service that inspired generations.
Predictably, news of his passing elicited widespread condolences on social media on Sunday afternoon.
President Carter taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service. Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from this remarkable man. https://t.co/dZHL0Nu0Tj
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) December 29, 2024
Hillary’s and my statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter: pic.twitter.com/SOgqTZUdi6
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) December 29, 2024
President Jimmy Carter was a true friend to Habitat for Humanity and worked so tirelessly to make the world a better place. Please join us in remembering him and celebrating the positive impact he had on so many. #HonoringCarter pic.twitter.com/WK3iGZ1zlt
— Habitat for Humanity (@Habitat_org) December 29, 2024
President Jimmy Carter lived a life of courage, fortitude, kindness and grace. He was a giant who never saw anyone as smaller than himself. Whether at a Boys & Girls Club banquet or when he sponsored a medical clinic for the uninsured in his corner of rural Georgia, he lived… pic.twitter.com/bm6a66cw2Q
— Stacey Abrams (@staceyabrams) December 29, 2024
