Jimmy Carter, The 39th president of the United States, known for his peace efforts in the Middle East and his unwavering advocacy for global health and human rights, died on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia.
"My father was a hero, not just to me but to everyone who values peace, human rights, and selfless love," said Chip Carter, his son, in a statement. "My siblings and I shared him with the world through these common values. His ability to unite people makes the world feel like family, and we appreciate your honoring his memory by living out these beliefs."
A member of the Georgia Democratic Party, Carter was the longest-living president in U.S. history. He served one term and was defeated by Ronald Reagan in 1980. However, in the years that followed, he dedicated himself to international relations and human rights, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. The Carter Center, which promotes democracy and human rights globally, confirmed his death on Sunday afternoon.
Carter's presidency, from 1977 to 1981, was marked by economic and diplomatic challenges. After leaving office with low approval ratings, he rebuilt his reputation through humanitarian work, culminating in the Nobel Peace Prize.
Carter had experienced several hospitalizations and, in February of last year, chose to spend his final days at home in hospice care with family support.
In response to his death, President Joe Biden declared January 9 a national day of mourning, encouraging Americans to honor the late leader in their places of worship.
Carter's wife, Rosalynn, passed away in November 2023, just two days after entering hospice care herself. The couple, married in 1946, spent most of their lives in Plains, Georgia. Their eldest grandchild, Jason Carter, mentioned in June that the former president was not always awake but was doing his best to experience life as he approached its end.
The Carter Center announced his peaceful passing surrounded by family. President Biden expressed deep sorrow, calling Carter an "extraordinary leader, statesman, and humanitarian," and noted the impact of his work in disease eradication, peace-building, and human rights advocacy.
Carter, who had served as Georgia's governor and held a naval lieutenant position before his presidency, is survived by four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
As a moderate Democrat, Carter entered the 1976 presidential race as a relatively unknown figure, leveraging his sincerity and technocratic approach to resonate with voters fatigued by scandals. He narrowly won against Gerald Ford, capitalizing on the public's desire for honesty after Nixon's presidency.
His presidency faced numerous challenges, including Cold War tensions and domestic issues surrounding civil rights and women's rights. One of his most notable achievements was brokering a peace agreement between Egypt and Israel at Camp David in 1978.
Carter opted to stop medical treatment for an undisclosed illness last year, embracing hospice care at home.
Biden highlighted Carter's legacy, noting he exemplified a life of purpose and meaning.
Carter's time in office was defined by economic troubles and foreign policy crises, including the Iran hostage crisis, but he also achieved a landmark peace accord in the Middle East.
Public memorials are planned in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., with a private burial in Plains, Georgia. Details regarding Carter's state funeral, including public events, are forthcoming.
Zainab Y.
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