Centenarian Former President Jimmy Carter Celebrates His 100th Birthday
In a historic moment for American history, Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, celebrated his 100th birthday on October 1, 2024. Carter, who served from 1977 to 1981, became the first president in U.S. history to reach the century mark.
Carter's post-presidential work has truly defined his legacy, with his humanitarian efforts continuing to impact communities through organisations like Habitat for Humanity. This week, Habitat for Humanity is building 30 homes in Minnesota to honour Carter's dedication to affordable housing.
The second longest-lived U.S. president, George H.W. Bush, lived to be 94 years and 171 days old. However, Carter surpassed him as the longest-living president after Bush celebrated his 100th birthday in 2024.
Carter's wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away in 2023 at the age of 96, marking the end of the longest marriage of any first couple in U.S. history. Despite being in hospice care since February 2023, Carter remains "emotionally engaged and aware of the world," according to his grandson Jason Carter.
Naturalization ceremonies for 100 new citizens are being held in Jimmy Carter's honour, reflecting the values of inclusivity and service that he embodies. A military flyover in Carter's hometown of Plains, Georgia, and a star-studded concert in Atlanta raised over $1.2 million for The Carter Center, furthering Carter's humanitarian work.
Jimmy Carter's commitment to public service earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. His dedication to peace and human rights continues to inspire generations, as he expressed his desire to vote in the upcoming election.
George H.W. Bush served as the 41st president from 1989 to 1993, but it is Jimmy Carter who now stands as a testament to the enduring power of public service and the impact one individual can have on the world. Carter's centennial birthday is a significant moment in American history, honouring a man who has dedicated his life to making the world a better place.
