
Former President Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday was marked by heartfelt tributes and a significant speech by Joe Biden celebrating Carter’s humanitarian legacy.
At a Glance
- Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.
- Carter and his wife Rosalynn co-founded The Carter Center in 1982 to promote peace, combat disease, and build hope.
- Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp declared Tuesday “Jimmy Carter Day.”
- A concert at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre raised $1.2 million for The Carter Center’s programs.
- President Joe Biden praised Carter for his enduring moral force and friendship in a tribute video.
Jimmy Carter’s Centenary Celebration
Former President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday among close family, friends, and admirers in his quaint hometown of Plains, Georgia. He is the first American president to reach this remarkable milestone. The celebration included a special gathering of about 25 family members who celebrated with cupcakes and a flyover by antique World War II planes. Carter has been in home hospice care for the past 19 months, yet he remains active and engaged with public life.
Carter’s monumental life achievements were praised by several public figures, including President Joe Biden who highlighted Carter’s humanitarian efforts and unwavering dedication to social justice. Biden described Carter as a “moral force” and a true friend, capturing the sentiment felt by many.
Happy 100th birthday to President Jimmy Carter!
His unwavering commitment to peace, public service, and humanitarian efforts continues to inspire us all.
Here's to a remarkable legacy!https://t.co/PO1VQA7T4S
— Rep. Henry Cuellar (@RepCuellar) October 1, 2024
A Legacy of Service and Commitment
Throughout his post-presidential career, Carter has made a significant impact through The Carter Center, which he co-founded with his wife, Rosalynn, in 1982. The Center focuses on promoting peace, combating disease, and fostering hope around the globe. This devotion to humanitarian causes remains evident in Carter’s legacy, including his pivotal role in reducing Guinea worm disease cases from 3.5 million to merely 13 known cases in 2022.
The centennial festivities included a heartfelt commemoration at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre, where a special concert raised over $1.2 million for The Carter Center’s international programs. Thousands of Habitat for Humanity volunteers are honoring Carter’s legacy by building 30 homes in St. Paul, Minnesota in collaboration with country music stars Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood.
Carter’s Next Goal
Despite his advancing age and health challenges, Jimmy Carter shows no signs of retiring from public life. He is determined to live long enough to cast his vote in the upcoming presidential election. This steadfast dedication to civic duty resonates with many Americans who see him as a paragon of effective leadership and moral fortitude.
Governors and local leaders also joined in the celebration, with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declaring Tuesday as “Jimmy Carter Day” in honor of his immense contributions. Carter’s influence stretches globally yet remains ever impactful in local communities, reflecting his life’s dedication to service and the uplifting of humanity.