While reaching the remarkable milestone of turning 100, Jimmy Carter holds the unique distinction of being the longest-living U.S. President in history. However, his lasting legacy is far more profound. Globally, wherever the values of civil liberties are cherished and peace remains a quest, Carter is celebrated as a champion for democracy and human rights. He stood in solidarity with those facing imprisonment and persecution. Inspired by his enduring spirit, countless individuals, including myself, have been moved to embrace such values, finding guidance not only in Jimmy but also in the wisdom and support of his wife, Rosalynn.
Evaluating Carter’s life and contributions isn’t straightforward. Many believe that his efforts post-presidency eclipse the achievements of his four years in office from 1977 to 1981. As President, he brokered a significant peace agreement between Israel and Egypt, yet was besieged by economic turmoil and geopolitical tensions—most notably, the rising oil prices, skyrocketing inflation peaking at around 14% in 1980, and the unrest in the Middle East due to the emergence of a radical Iran. These hurdles culminated in his solitary presidential term.
However, Carter’s presidency laid the groundwork for an even more significant chapter: five decades of devoted public service addressing some of the world’s most formidable challenges. Celebrated academic and diplomat, James Laney, insightfully remarked that Carter uniquely utilized the White House as a stepping stone for global impact.
Throughout his almost 44 years after leaving office, Carter became a towering example of moral leadership. He taught the world the importance of prioritizing service over wealth and power, all rooted in an unshakeable integrity.
Had circumstances been different, Carter—only 56 when defeated by Ronald Reagan—might have chosen paths many former presidents tread: pursuing financial gain or distancing themselves from politics altogether. Historical figures like John Quincy Adams went on to serve in Congress, while William Taft became Chief Justice. Others turned to education or resumed previous careers. Yet Carter’s trajectory was unique. Though he retired to his Georgia hometown, returning to peanut farming was never on the cards.
Instead, he embarked on an extraordinary 43-year journey of global public service. Only Herbert Hoover, engaged in humanitarian efforts before and after his presidency, achieved similar feats in philanthropy. Carter’s humanitarian legacy wasn’t merely built on charitable contributions. He continuously traveled to areas in need of leadership and was widely recognized for these efforts, notably receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Carter’s greatness was his holistic approach to human rights, encompassing social, economic, civil, and political dimensions. His work with Habitat for Humanity, building affordable homes, left a lasting mark, as did his relentless campaign against Guinea worm disease, reducing cases from millions in 1986 to just 14 by 2023. He championed women’s rights, evidenced by his book, A Call to Action: Women, Religion, Violence, and Power.
In Latin America, Carter’s integrity commanded respect. Notable was his involvement in the 1989 Panamanian election, where he boldly confronted electoral fraud perpetrated by Noriega’s authoritarian regime. As an election monitor, he famously challenged corrupt officials and publicly condemned the rigged process, setting a precedent for the Carter Center’s work in election monitoring globally.
An accomplished author of 32 books, Carter’s writings spanned his love of fishing to his Christian faith. As a progressive evangelical, he often taught Bible classes, embodying a principle-driven life free from using public office for personal gain. Humble in demeanor, Jimmy and Rosalynn lived modestly, a testament to their lifetime of giving back and treating all with respect and dignity.
In his early years, nothing foretold Carter’s presidential ambitions. As Georgia’s governor, he fought segregation, but few saw him as a future leader of the nation. His political naiveté sometimes contrastively highlighted his strong moral beliefs, particularly in an era marred by Watergate scandals.
Tellingly, before his presidential bid, his own mother questioned his aspirations, humorously asking, "President of what?" Yet, despite being underestimated, he ascended to the presidency, later leaving a legacy not measured solely by tenure. As we reflect, particularly on the national day of mourning on January 9 declared by Joe Biden, we celebrate Carter’s service-oriented life and steadfast moral leadership. His legacy will endure, continuing to inspire long after many other presidents fade into history.
