Jimmy Carter’s legacy extends far beyond his presidency. After leaving the White House in 1981, Carter devoted himself to humanitarian causes through the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization he and his wife, Rosalynn, founded in 1982. The Carter Center became a global leader in promoting peace, fighting diseases, and advancing human rights, with notable initiatives such as efforts to combat malaria, guinea worm disease, and the promotion of free and fair elections around the world.
Carter won numerous awards for his charitable efforts, culminating in the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for his contributions to promoting international politics and conflict resolution. His post-presidential years marked a time of diligent service, as he traveled to some of the world’s most demanding regions to mediate conflicts, deliver aid, and promote political governance.
Carter was a strong advocate for cheap housing through Habitat for Humanity, working alongside participants to build houses for those in need, in addition to his efforts to end world war two. Even though his health has declined in recent years, his unwavering commitment to these factors demonstrated his deep commitment to social justice.
A stormy administration
Carter’s president, which spanned from 1977 to 1981, was marked by both considerable efforts and serious problems. While he brokered the Camp David Accords, an unrivaled success in Middle Eastern politics, his presidency faced intense challenges at home, including the 1979 energy crises, soaring prices, and the renowned Iran hostage crisis, which saw 52 Americans held captive in Tehran for over a year.
Despite these challenges, Carter’s vision for a more just and peaceful world shaped his foreign policy decisions, including his focus on human rights, and his landmark agreement to limit nuclear arms with the Soviet Union. His presidency’s economic difficulties, particularly the deep recession of the late 1970s, and the inability to resolve the Iran hostage crisis, hampered his political standing and contributed to his defeat in the 1980 presidential election to Ronald Reagan.
However, Carter’s post-presidential career would prove far more enduring than his time in office. He became a beloved figure both domestically and internationally thanks to his leadership in international humanitarian efforts and ability to work with his critics.
The final chapter: A family man
His enduring friendship with his wife Rosalynn, who he frequently attributed as a source of strength throughout his life, helped shape Carter’s final years. The couple’s partnership was one of the longest in American political history, spanning nearly eight decades. They weathered personal and professional storms together, including the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, during which they isolated together in their modest home in Plains, Georgia. Rosalynn Carter’s passing in November 2023 left a profound impact on her husband, and his final months were marked by both grief and reflection.
After a number of health issues, including a diagnosis of melanoma that spread to his liver and brain, Carter entered hospice care in February of 2023. His decision to forgo further medical care and spend his final days at home was in line with his life’s philosophy of personal dignity and humility.
Funeral plans and tributes
Carter’s memorial service will follow a carefully planned schedule, reflecting his lifelong commitment to family, tradition, and public service. He will lay in repose in Atlanta before being flown to Washington, D.C. for a state funeral at the National Cathedral, where the public will be able to pay his respects. A final ode to a man whose life spaned nearly a century of American history will be held at the service, which will include dignitaries and heads of state.
Carter will make his way back to Plains, where he will be buried on the grounds of his family’s home, completing a life marked by extraordinary service to his country and the world.
