| Jimmy Carter | |
|---|---|
| File:Jimmy Carter 1977.jpg | |
| Order | 39th President of the United States |
| In office | January 20, 1977 – January 20, 1981 |
| Vice President | Walter Mondale |
| Preceded by | Gerald Ford |
| Succeeded by | Ronald Reagan |
| Born | October 1, 1924 (100 years old) Plains, Georgia, United States |
| Political Party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Rosalynn Carter (m. 1946–2023) |
| Children | John, James, Donnel, Amy |
| Profession | Peanut farmer, naval officer, politician, author |
| Alma mater | United States Naval Academy |
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Jimmy Carter (born October 1, 1924) is an American former politician who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. A member of the Democratic Party, Carter previously served as the 76th governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975 and as a Georgia state senator from 1963 to 1967.
Early Life and Education
James Earl Carter Jr. was born in Plains, Georgia, to a peanut farming family. His father, James Sr., was a successful local businessman, while his mother, Lillian, was a nurse known for her progressive social views.
Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and served in the U.S. Navy’s nuclear submarine program. After his father’s death, he returned to Georgia to run the family peanut business.
Political Career
Carter entered politics in the early 1960s, serving two terms as a Georgia state senator. He later became governor of Georgia in 1971, gaining a reputation as a progressive Southern politician.
He announced his candidacy for president in 1974 and ran as a Washington outsider. In 1976, he narrowly defeated incumbent Gerald Ford to become the 39th President.
Presidency (1977–1981)
Carter’s presidency focused on energy reform, environmental conservation, and human rights. He created the Department of Energy and the Department of Education, and brokered the Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel in 1978.
However, his presidency faced difficulties including high inflation, the energy crisis, and the Iran hostage crisis, which significantly damaged his popularity.
Post-Presidency and Humanitarian Work
After losing reelection to Ronald Reagan in 1980, Carter devoted his life to humanitarian efforts. He founded the Carter Center, which focuses on global health, democracy, and human rights.
Carter has also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and written numerous books. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his decades of work promoting peace and human rights.
Personal Life
Jimmy Carter married Rosalynn Smith in 1946, and they had four children together. Rosalynn passed away in 2023. The Carters were known for their deep commitment to faith and public service.
Legacy
Jimmy Carter is often praised for his post-presidency, regarded as one of the most impactful in U.S. history. His advocacy for peace, democracy, and public health has earned him global respect.