Jimmy Carter, the distinguished 39th president of the United States, has just celebrated his 100th birthday.
He is the first U.S. president to reach the century mark, with events unfolding in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, and across the nation, Fox News reported.
Despite receiving home hospice care since February two years ago, Carter’s remarkable longevity has attracted widespread admiration and a series of public tributes. His wife, the late Rosalynn Carter, had recently passed in 2023 at the age of 96.
In Plains, the celebration was highlighted by the annual Plains Peanut Festival, initiating a week of commemorative events. Additionally, a special naturalization ceremony saw 100 new citizens take their oaths on this momentous day.
Ceremonial flyovers and the unveiling of new statues dedicated to the Bill of Rights and the Constitution marked other focal points of the celebration. These symbolic gestures commemorated Carter’s enduring dedication to constitutional values.
Aside from local festivities, volunteers in St. Paul, Minnesota, embarked on a substantial charity initiative, constructing 30 new homes, tying into the celebratory theme and honoring Carter's lifelong commitment to housing and philanthropy.
Among the well-wishers was President Joe Biden, who shared heartfelt sentiments through a video message, lauding Carter as "one of the most influential statesmen in our history." This sentiment was echoed by numerous public figures and former colleagues who celebrated the impact and integrity of Carter’s presidential and post-presidential efforts.
Long-time observer and admirer Cathie Skoog shared her memories, remarking, “I remember the first time I saw him, and I was in awe, and the feeling's always been there. You can be around presidents all the time, but the first time is the most meaningful.”
Jill Stuckey, a close family friend, noted the humorous yet poignant aspect of Carter's fight against his health decline with a statement emphasizing both Carter’s resilience and the irony of his tenure in hospice care:
He keeps living, and we are so thrilled about that fact. So, if he was to not be good at anything, we're glad it's hospice. Jimmy and Mrs. Carter were concerned about living as long as they possibly could, being as healthy as they possibly could, so they could help as many people as they possibly could.
Throughout his life, Jimmy Carter has achieved many firsts, including being the very first U.S. president born in a hospital and the first Naval Academy graduate to hold the office. His presidency was marked by efforts to resolve longstanding national issues and an overriding belief in the sanctity of the spirit of the American people.
Poignantly, during a time of national introspection, Carter once stressed, "We must face the truth, and then we can change our course." These words, delivered during his presidency, continue to resonate, reflecting his dedication to honesty and pragmatic change.
The 100th birthday of Jimmy Carter not only marks a personal milestone but also celebrates the far-reaching impacts of his humanitarian and political endeavors. From significant healthcare advancements during his term to his extensive work in international diplomacy and community building post-presidency, his life’s work has left a profound legacy. Volunteers across the nation, community celebrations, and heartfelt tributes attest to the enduring respect and affection held for Carter, who remains a pivotal figure in American public life and global humanitarian efforts. The heartfelt nationwide celebrations and initiatives on his centenary reflect the broad and lasting impact of his life and career.
