Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. Once relegated by history to the status of a minor president, he is now celebrated as one of the most influential humanitarians of his time. Behind this discreet figure lies a life marked by humility, resilience, and an unwavering faith in the human capacity to build a better world.
A Presidency Under the Banner of Moral Pragmatism
Jimmy Carter entered the White House in 1976, at a time when Americans’ trust in their leaders was at an all-time low. After the traumas of the Watergate scandal and the resignation of Richard Nixon, the country longed for a moral renewal. The former governor of Georgia, a devout Baptist Christian and trained engineer, appealed with his image as an honest man close to the people.
However, his term from 1977 to 1981 oscillated between historic successes and resounding setbacks. On the international stage, Carter established himself as a peacemaker by orchestrating the Camp David Accords in 1978, which ended decades of conflict between Israel and Egypt. But this achievement was overshadowed by the Iran hostage crisis (1979-1981), an episode that humiliated America and deeply weakened his presidency.
Domestically, Carter faced enormous economic challenges: record inflation, high unemployment rates, and an energy crisis that forced Americans into unpopular sacrifices. His calls to reduce energy consumption and develop alternative energies, though forward-thinking, struggled to gain public support. These trials led to a crushing defeat against Ronald Reagan in 1980, marking the abrupt end of his presidential journey.
An Unwavering Family Pillar
Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter drew strength from his partnership with Rosalynn Carter, his wife since 1946. Together, they formed an exemplary partnership, not only personally but also professionally. Rosalynn was a valuable advisor, playing an active role in mental health and social policy issues.
Their union, marked by a displayed simplicity, gave birth to four children, who themselves helped carry forward the values of integrity and public service inherited from their parents. Mrs. Carter, who passed away a few months before her husband, remains an admired figure for her discretion and dedication.
A Second Life Dedicated to Great Causes
While his presidency is often judged harshly, it is in his role as a former president that Jimmy Carter truly made history. Refusing to retreat into obscurity or capitalize on his status, he dedicated himself from 1982 to global causes by founding the Carter Center. This institute became a major player in the fight against neglected tropical diseases, notably dracunculiasis, and in election observation around the world.
Carter also actively engaged in housing construction programs for the underprivileged with Habitat for Humanity, illustrating a pragmatic approach to commitment: building, hand in hand, to tangibly transform lives. These actions earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, a distinction recognizing decades of efforts to promote human dignity.
The Shadows of a Public Man
Despite his tireless humanitarian commitment, Carter was not spared from controversies. His strong positions, particularly on Israeli-Palestinian policy, sparked heated debates. In his book Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid (2006), he openly criticized Israeli policies, provoking outrage from part of the American public and close allies. Although controversial, this work illustrates Carter’s ability to remain true to his own principles, even if it meant facing misunderstandings.
A Passing Mourned Worldwide
Upon the announcement of his recent death, tributes poured in from all corners. Joe Biden, still the current president of the United States, praised "a man of rare integrity, whose faith in humanity never wavered." Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton each paid tribute to the former head of state. The United Nations, through their secretary-general, recalled Carter’s crucial role in the fight against inequalities and conflicts. Leaders from around the world, from Africa to Asia, highlighted the impact of his initiatives for peace and social justice.
In his hometown of Plains, residents gathered to pay tribute to the man they considered "one of their own," a man who, despite the honors, never lost the connection to his roots.
A Memorable Legacy
Jimmy Carter leaves behind a universal lesson: the true greatness of a man does not lie in the honors he receives, but in the lives he aspires to improve sustainably. His humble approach and unwavering faith in the human capacity to change the world have inspired generations.
While his presidential term was judged harshly, his post-presidential work earned him worldwide recognition. Carter embodies a rare model: that of a leader who, away from the spotlight, wished to dedicate his life to others.
His memory is now etched in history as a powerful testament to the values of justice, peace, and solidarity, reminding us that the impact of a man can transcend his era to join the great causes of humanity.
