Jimmy Carter Turns 100, First US President

Last updated: October 1, 2024 10:59 pm

Jimmy Carter Turns 100, Becomes First US President to Reach the Milestone

Jimmy Carter turned 100 on Tuesday, becoming the longest-living president in US history. Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Carter is known for his post-presidential efforts in promoting democracy, peace, and global development.

The 39th US President served from 1977 to 1981 and holds the record for the longest post-presidency period, spanning over 43 years. A Democrat, Carter began his political career as a state senator before becoming the governor of Georgia.

After leaving office, he and his wife, Rosalynn, founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit dedicated to human rights and conflict resolution. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, who served as First Lady from 1977 to 1981, passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96.

In 2002, he received the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in promoting peace and advocating for human rights worldwide.

In 2015, Carter was diagnosed with cancer that spread to his brain. Despite health challenges, including entering hospice care in February 2023, he continues to inspire.

Jimmy Carter is the first US president to reach 100 years old. The previous record-holders were George H.W. Bush, who passed away at 94 in 2018, and Ronald Reagan and Gerald Ford, who both lived to 93.

The current president, Joe Biden, holds the record as the oldest sitting US president at 81. If Donald Trump wins this fall, he could break that record and become the oldest commander-in-chief.

Carter, now 100, has also endorsed Kamala Harris for president. His grandson, Jason Carter, recently shared that the former president is still looking forward to casting his vote in the upcoming election, set for November 5.