President Joe Biden declares National Day of Mourning for Jimmy Carter

Biden asked Americans to gather in their places of worship to remember Carter and pay tribute to his life and legacy. He called on people around the world to join in the solemn observance of this day.

Carter, who was the 39th president of the United States, passed away at the age of 100. He died on Sunday, just over 22 months after entering hospice care. Carter passed peacefully at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by his family. His wife, Rosalynn, who passed away in November 2023, had spent many years with him in their small town home.

The Carter Center, founded by Jimmy Carter, shared the sad news on social media. The center confirmed his death, saying he was surrounded by loved ones when he passed away.

A Legacy of Service and Humility

President Biden expressed deep sorrow at Carter's death. He described Carter as an "extraordinary leader" who made a lasting impact on the world. Biden praised Carter's work in promoting peace, human rights, and democracy. He also highlighted Carter’s lifelong dedication to improving the lives of others, including his efforts to fight disease and help those in need.

Biden remembered his long friendship with Carter, saying that the former president had been a great comfort to him during difficult times, especially when Biden’s son Beau passed away from cancer in 2015. Biden reflected on the shared experience of dealing with cancer, which both he and Carter had personally faced.

In his statement, Biden honored Carter’s example of living a life of purpose and faith. He urged young people to look up to Carter as a model for leading a meaningful life.

Carter's Life and Achievements

Jimmy Carter's life was one of great achievements and challenges. Before becoming president, Carter was a peanut farmer in Georgia. He entered the 1976 presidential race as a little-known governor but won the hearts of Americans with his honesty and dedication. His promise to tell the truth resonated with voters who were weary after the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War.

Though his presidency was marked by struggles such as high inflation and the Iran hostage crisis, Carter’s work in peacekeeping remains one of his greatest legacies. He is perhaps most famous for brokering the Camp David Accords in 1978, which brought peace between Egypt and Israel. This was a major achievement during his time in office.

However, Carter faced difficult challenges during his presidency, including a tough economy, rising oil prices, and the crisis in Iran. These issues led to his loss in the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan. Despite his loss, Carter remained active in global affairs after leaving the White House.

A Lifelong Commitment to Humanitarian Work

After his presidency, Carter devoted much of his time to humanitarian efforts through The Carter Center. Founded in 1982, the center focused on peacebuilding, human rights, and public health. Carter worked tirelessly on international issues such as reducing nuclear tensions and promoting free elections.

One of his most significant achievements was his efforts to eradicate the guinea worm disease, which had plagued many parts of Africa. Thanks to his work, the number of cases dropped dramatically. Carter also worked with Habitat for Humanity, helping build homes for the poor.

His global efforts earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. The Nobel committee recognized him for his “untiring effort to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote economic and social development.”

Remembering a President Who Gave So Much

Carter’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on. He was a man of deep faith and unwavering principles, dedicated to making the world a better place. His work to promote peace, health, and democracy continues to inspire people around the world.

In addition to declaring January 9 a National Day of Mourning, President Biden ordered that U.S. flags be flown at half-staff for 30 days to honor Carter’s memory.