What's happened
Former President Jimmy Carter was honored with a state funeral on January 9, 2025, attended by all living U.S. presidents. The ceremony took place at Washington National Cathedral, followed by his burial in Plains, Georgia. Carter, who passed away at 100, was celebrated for his humanitarian efforts and diplomatic achievements during and after his presidency.
What's behind the headline?
Legacy of Jimmy Carter
- Humanitarian Impact: Carter's post-presidential work through the Carter Center has made significant contributions to global health and human rights.
- Diplomatic Achievements: His presidency is noted for key diplomatic milestones, including the Camp David Accords and normalization of relations with China.
- Cultural Reflection: The funeral highlighted a stark contrast between Carter's values of service and the current political climate, particularly with the presence of Donald Trump, which underscored the divisions in contemporary U.S. politics.
- Public Sentiment: The outpouring of respect from both sides of the political aisle during the funeral reflects a yearning for the civility and decency that characterized Carter's approach to governance.
Carter's legacy will likely continue to be reassessed, especially as the nation navigates its current political challenges.
What the papers say
The Guardian reported on the solemnity of Carter's funeral, noting the attendance of all living presidents and the bipartisan atmosphere, with President Biden emphasizing the need for generosity in leadership. The South China Morning Post highlighted the national day of mourning and the public's respect for Carter, while AP News detailed the funeral's proceedings, including the motorcade through Plains. The Independent echoed sentiments of admiration for Carter's humanitarian efforts and the significance of his life and work.
How we got here
Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, died on December 29, 2024, at the age of 100. His passing marked the end of a significant political era, as he was the last president from the Greatest Generation. His funeral proceedings began with a motorcade through his hometown of Plains, Georgia, culminating in a state funeral in Washington, D.C.
Go deeper
- What were Jimmy Carter's major accomplishments?
- How did Carter's presidency impact U.S. politics?
- What are the key takeaways from his funeral?
Common question
-
What is Jimmy Carter's Legacy and Impact on American Politics?
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to influence American politics and humanitarian efforts. As the nation honors his contributions, many are reflecting on his presidency and the key moments that defined his time in office. Here are some common questions about Carter's legacy and the impact he had on the country.
-
What Were Jimmy Carter's Major Accomplishments and Legacy?
Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States, left a profound impact on American politics and global humanitarian efforts. Following his passing at the age of 100, many are reflecting on his life and legacy. This page explores his major accomplishments, how the nation is honoring him, and the lessons we can learn from his presidency.
-
How Are Public Figures Changing the Conversation Around Mental Health?
Public figures and celebrities are increasingly influencing the way we talk about mental health. As society grapples with the complexities of mental well-being, these influential voices are helping to reshape narratives, promote awareness, and encourage open discussions. Below are some common questions people have about the role of public figures in mental health advocacy.
-
What Leadership Lessons Can We Learn from Jimmy Carter and Costas Simitis?
The recent deaths of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former Greek Prime Minister Costas Simitis have sparked reflections on their leadership styles and legacies. Both leaders made significant contributions to their countries, and their passing raises important questions about the qualities that define effective leadership today. Here, we explore the lessons that current and future leaders can draw from their lives and careers.
-
What Were Jimmy Carter's Major Accomplishments and Legacy?
Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a profound legacy. His contributions to humanitarian efforts, diplomacy, and modern politics continue to resonate today. As we reflect on his life, many questions arise about his major accomplishments, the impact of his presidency, and the reactions to his passing.
More on these topics
-
Plains is a city in Sumter County, Georgia, United States. The population was 776 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Americus Micropolitan Statistical Area. Plains is the birthplace and home of Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States.
-
James Earl Carter Jr. is an American politician and philanthropist who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981.
-
The United States Capitol, often called the Capitol Building, is the home of the United States Congress and the seat of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government.
-
Eleanor Rosalynn Carter is an American who served as First Lady of the United States from 1977 to 1981 as the wife of President Jimmy Carter. For decades, she has been a leading advocate for numerous causes. Carter was politically active during her White
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Atlanta is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Georgia. With an estimated 2019 population of 506,811, it is also the 37th most populous city in the United States.
-
The Nobel Peace Prize is one of the five Nobel Prizes established by the will of Swedish industrialist, inventor, and armaments manufacturer Alfred Nobel, along with the prizes in Chemistry, Physics, Physiology or Medicine, and Literature.
-
Georgia is a state in the Southeastern Region of the United States. Georgia is the 24th-largest in area and 8th-most populous of the 50 United States.
-
Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American politician who is the 46th and current president of the United States. A member of the Democratic Party, he served as the 47th vice president from 2009 to 2017 and represented Delaware in the United States Senate
-
Ronald Wilson Reagan was an American film actor and politician who served as the 40th president of the United States from 1981 to 1989.