7 Key Moments In The Life Of Jimmy Carter

However, Carter’s legacy was primarily shaped by his post-presidential years, which became the longest in U.S. history.

Read Also: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Former US President Jimmy Carter Who Died At 100

Here are some key moments from Carter’s life, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 100:

– The Panama Canal –

In his first year as president, Carter made a controversial decision to reverse a campaign promise and agree to relinquish U.S. control of the Panama Canal, which had been under American military authority since its construction in the early 1900s. On September 7, 1977, he signed treaties with Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos, returning the canal to Panama by the end of 1999.

Criticized at the time, this move is now seen as a shrewd diplomatic gesture. By giving Panama a significant role in managing the canal before the transfer, Carter helped stabilize the region and improved the U.S. image in Latin America, distancing the country from its imperialist past.

Panama’s President José Mulino remarked that Carter’s efforts helped Panama achieve “full sovereignty.”

– Morality in Politics –

Carter entered the Oval Office determined to move away from the Cold War-era realpolitik of his predecessors, focusing instead on human rights. In a 1978 speech at the U.S. Naval Academy, he emphasized the importance of creating a world more responsive to the global desire for economic well-being, social justice, political self-determination, and basic human rights.

One notable achievement in this regard was Carter’s signing of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights in 1977, which was later ratified by the U.S. Senate in 1992 after being delayed for years.

– Camp David Accords –

In September 1978, Carter brokered a historic peace agreement between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat at Camp David, the presidential retreat. After 13 days of intense negotiations, the two leaders signed accords that paved the way for a peace treaty, which was finalized in 1979. This diplomatic success earned Carter the Nobel Peace Prize.

– ‘Crisis of Confidence’ –

Amid economic troubles, inflation, and dwindling approval ratings in the summer of 1979, Carter delivered a televised address in which he blamed America’s struggles on a national “crisis of confidence.” He stated that the erosion of trust was undermining the country’s political and social fabric.

The speech, however, was poorly received, leading to the resignation of five cabinet members and further damaging his political standing.

– Iran Hostage Crisis –

The Iran hostage crisis, in which over 50 Americans were held captive at the U.S. embassy in Tehran from November 1979 to January 1981, severely tarnished Carter’s presidency. A failed military rescue attempt, Operation Eagle Claw, was marred by sandstorms, mechanical failures, and the tragic loss of eight U.S. servicemen, further eroding Carter’s credibility.

The hostages were released on the day Ronald Reagan was inaugurated as president, after Carter had suffered a landslide defeat in the 1980 election.

– The Carter Center –

After leaving office, Carter remained incredibly active, founding the Carter Center in 1982. The center focuses on promoting democracy, resolving conflicts, advancing human rights, and combating diseases. Carter’s post-presidency was defined by his global efforts as a mediator, overseeing elections in countries from Haiti to East Timor.

– The Elders –

In 2007, Carter joined The Elders, a group of former world leaders founded by Nelson Mandela to promote peace and human rights. Notable members included fellow Nobel Peace Prize laureates, such as South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu, former Liberian President Ellen Sirleaf Johnson, and former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

Though his presidency had its share of challenges, Jimmy Carter’s post-presidency years cemented his reputation as one of the most active and respected former U.S. presidents.