Jimmy Carter - the 39th President of the United States and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate - passed away on Sunday at his home in Plains, Georgia. He was 100 years old.
Carter, a Democrat, served a single term from 1977 to 1981, leading with a strong focus on peace and human rights but faced significant challenges, including a struggling economy and the Iran hostage crisis.
Despite his mixed legacy as a president, Carter was widely celebrated for his post-White House humanitarian efforts, which earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Legacy of peace and struggles
Carter’s presidency was marked by the historic Camp David Accords in 1978, which facilitated peace between Israel and Egypt, a milestone in Middle Eastern diplomacy. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi remarked, “His significant role in achieving the peace agreement between Egypt and Israel will remain etched in the annals of history.”
However, his administration struggled with economic challenges, including double-digit inflation and soaring energy prices. The Iran hostage crisis, where 52 Americans were held captive for 444 days, further marred his presidency and contributed to his defeat in the 1980 election against Republican Ronald Reagan.
Life dedicated to humanity
Post-presidency, Carter dedicated himself to humanitarian causes, founding the Carter Center in 1982. The organization worked globally to advance democracy, monitor elections, and combat diseases. Carter's efforts in Ethiopia, Haiti, and North Korea garnered international acclaim, cementing his reputation as a tireless advocate for peace and human rights.
World leaders and former U.S. presidents paid tribute to Carter’s legacy. “He was compassionate, humble, and unwavering in his commitment to peace,” read a statement from the White House.
Centenarian’s final years
In his later years, Carter faced health issues, including melanoma, which led him to opt for hospice care in February 2023. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, with whom he shared a 77-year marriage, passed away in November 2023. The couple’s love story and partnership were often celebrated, with Carter calling their union “the most important thing in my life.”
The Carter Center announced that public observances will be held in Atlanta and Washington, followed by a private interment in Plains. Final arrangements for his state funeral are pending.
James Earl Carter Jr., born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, rose from humble beginnings as a peanut farmer to the U.S. presidency. Though his term in office faced setbacks, his enduring dedication to humanity leaves a legacy that extends far beyond the Oval Office.
Pakistan PM Shehbaz expresses grief
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his condolences upon hearing the news of the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter.
He extended his heartfelt sympathies to Carter's family and the American people.
PM Shehbaz stated that Carter would always be remembered for his humanitarian efforts and services for global peace.
