Jimmy Carter, born in 1924 in Plains, Georgia, was raised in a modest family and took over his father’s small business selling fertilizers and farm supplies. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1946 and later pursued graduate studies in nuclear physics at Union College. Carter served globally in the Navy before becoming Georgia’s 76th governor in 1971 and then the Democratic National Committee campaign chairman in 1974. He won the Democratic presidential nomination in 1976 and was elected President, serving from 1977 to 1981.

As President, Carter prioritized human rights worldwide and worked toward peace in the Middle East, efforts for which he is widely recognized. In 1982, he and his wife Rosalynn founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing human rights, supporting democracy, and eradicating diseases in developing nations. The Center has conducted peace negotiations, monitored elections, and contributed to health and social programs internationally.

A strong advocate for peace, Carter remains vocal on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has supported Habitat for Humanity. Since leaving office, he has authored 21 of his 27 books, focusing on topics like humanitarian work, human rights, and peace. Carter’s efforts were acknowledged with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his dedication to resolving conflicts and promoting democracy and development, a rare recognition for achievements post-presidency.

He passed away on December 29, 2024, after roughly 22 months of hospice care. He was a 100 years old.