About
James Earl Carter Jr. served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Prior to his presidency, he was the 76th governor of Georgia and a member of the Georgia State Senate. Carter is the only U.S. president from Georgia. Known for his commitment to human rights and peace, he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Career Timeline
Elected 39th US President
Won the presidency as a Washington outsider following the Watergate scandal, promising honesty and integrity. He became a household name and leader of the free world.
Camp David Accords Success
Brokered the historic Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel, his greatest foreign policy achievement. This peace agreement enhanced his global stature as a peacemaker.
Iran Hostage Crisis Begins
The Iranian hostage crisis began, dominating the remainder of his presidency and damaging his public image. Combined with economic troubles, his approval ratings plummeted.
Landslide Re-election Defeat
Lost re-election to Ronald Reagan in a landslide, widely seen as a failed one-term president. He left office with his political career seemingly over and reputation damaged.
Carter Center Global Work
The Carter Center's humanitarian work began gaining significant recognition for election monitoring and disease eradication. His post-presidency rehabilitation was underway.
Nobel Peace Prize Win
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for decades of humanitarian work, vindicating his post-presidential career. He became widely regarded as the most successful former president in American history.
Cancer Diagnosis and Recovery
Announced he had metastatic cancer but later declared cancer-free after treatment. His health struggles brought renewed attention to his remarkable longevity and continued advocacy.
Longest-Lived President Milestone
Became the longest-lived U.S. president in history, surpassing George H.W. Bush. His extraordinary life span and continued humanitarian work kept him in public consciousness.
Death at Age 100
Died at age 100 after entering hospice care, prompting national tributes to his humanitarian legacy. His death marked the end of a remarkable life of service spanning nearly a century.
Humanitarian Legacy Remembered
Remembered as a president who found greater success after leaving office through humanitarian work. While well-known and respected, he remains primarily associated with his post-presidential achievements rather than as a dominant political figure.
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Last updated: February 23, 2026