Curious World Staff
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States and a global humanitarian, died Sunday in Plains, Georgia, at age 100. Carter, the longest-living president in U.S. history, spent nearly two years in hospice care.
He survived his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away in November 2023 at 96. Carter is survived by four children, 11 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.
“My father was a hero,” said son Chip Carter. “The world is our family because of how he brought people together.”
Carter was born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, and grew up as the son of a grocer. After graduating from the US Naval Academy in 1946, he worked on submarines before joining Admiral Hyman Rickover’s nuclear submarine program. He returned to Plains in 1953, following his father’s death, to take over the family farm.
Carter entered politics in 1962, winning a Georgia Senate seat, and became governor in 1970. In 1976, he captured the presidency, defeating Gerald Ford. Despite achievements like the Camp David Accords, his term was marked by challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and economic struggles, leading to his 1980 defeat by Ronald Reagan.
After leaving government, Carter dedicated himself to humanitarian activities. He established the Carter Center to advance democracy and human rights and collaborated with Habitat for Humanity. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his efforts.
In later years, Carter overcame cancer and published books, including his final work, Faith: A Journey for All. He was a devoted Atlanta Braves fan and celebrated his 98th birthday with a hometown parade in Plains.
Carter selected hospice care in February 2023. Public memorial services will be performed in Atlanta and Washington, followed by a private burial in Plains alongside Rosalynn. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to The Carter Center.
