Jimmy Carter has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first U.S. president to reach the age of 100. This unprecedented event, occurring on October 1, 2024, underscores the former president's extraordinary longevity and resilience.
Carter's post-presidential life spans nearly 44 years, the longest of any former U.S. leader. His lifetime has intersected with 17 other presidents, beginning with William Howard Taft and potentially extending to Vice President Kamala Harris, should she secure the presidency.
Born in Plains, Georgia, before the Great Depression, Carter's journey from peanut farmer to the nation's highest office is a testament to his diverse experiences. He served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, losing his re-election bid to Ronald Reagan. Despite entering hospice care in February 2023, Carter has continued to defy expectations.
Carter's life has been marked by numerous achievements and contributions. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his humanitarian efforts and founded The Carter Center in 1982 to advance human rights globally. As a prolific author, he has penned 32 books on various subjects, showcasing his intellectual breadth.
His naval career is equally noteworthy. Carter graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1946 and served as a submarine officer. Interestingly, he holds the distinction of being the first U.S. president born in a hospital and the first born after World War I.
During his presidency, Carter made significant strides in both domestic and foreign policy. He established the Department of Energy and the Department of Education, installed solar panels on the White House roof in 1979, and granted amnesty to Vietnam War draft evaders in 1977. On the international stage, he negotiated the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt in 1978 and pursued nuclear arms reduction with the Soviet Union.
Carter's post-presidency has been equally impactful. He has been a dedicated Habitat for Humanity volunteer and an accomplished painter with exhibited works. In recognition of his continued service, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999.
As Carter joins the small group of American centenarians, comprising just 0.03 percent of the population according to the Pew Research Center, his life serves as a testament to resilience, service, and the potential for continued impact well beyond one's time in office.
"I've had a good life. I've had a good chance to serve my country and to serve God. I'm thankful for every day I have."
This historic milestone not only celebrates Carter's personal achievement but also provides a unique perspective on the span of American history encompassed within a single lifetime.