James ("Jimmy") Earl Carter, Jr., (1 Oct 1924 – 29 Dec 2024) was the 39th president of the United States, 1977–1981. Although in office for only one term, Jimmy Carter was a national and international force for almost 50 years. Following four years in the White House, Carter spent decades advancing human rights, combatting global health crises, and expanding democracy.
After leaving office in 1981, Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, founded the Carter Center at Emory University to continue their public service. With the center, Carter led an international campaign to eradicate Guinea worm, observed democratic elections in more than 40 countries, and fought to reduce the stigma of mental illness. Carter was also a devoted supporter of Habitat for Humanity, personally working alongside volunteers to build, renovate, and repair homes for 35 years.
For his work promoting peace and human rights, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.