Friday
3rd Jan 2025
Dhivehi Edition
39th President of America Jimmy Carter -photo:Reuters
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States and a global humanitarian, passed away on Sunday at the age of 100. The Carter Center confirmed that he died peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family.
Carter, who assumed the presidency in January 1977 after defeating Republican President Gerald Ford, served a single term marked by significant challenges. His tenure was defined by economic difficulties and the Iran hostage crisis, which contributed to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in the 1980 presidential election.
Despite these setbacks, Carter’s achievements in office included a pivotal role in brokering the Camp David Accords, which led to a historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. This accomplishment remains one of the most enduring legacies of his presidency.
After leaving office, Carter transformed his public image through decades of humanitarian work, becoming a symbol of moral leadership and service. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his “decades of untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.”
Carter’s later years were marked by health challenges, including a battle with skin cancer that spread to his brain. In February 2023, he opted for hospice care, choosing comfort over further medical interventions.
His passing comes a little over a year after the death of his wife of 77 years, Rosalynn Carter, who passed away on November 19, 2023, at the age of 96. Despite his frailty, Carter attended her funeral, demonstrating the deep bond they shared.
Carter holds the distinction of being the longest-living former U.S. president, and he often acknowledged that his post-presidency efforts brought him greater recognition than his time in the White House. Through the Carter Center, he championed causes such as global health, democracy, and peacebuilding, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Jimmy Carter’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to humanity. As the world bids farewell to a statesman who exemplified service both in and out of office, his contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.