Today, the world bid farewell to a man who will forever remain etched in the history of the United States of America as the 39th President Jimmy Carter. He will be honored with state funeral at the Washington National Cathedral. He became U.S. president back in 1977 having won the office as the Democratic nominee by defeating incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford in the December 1976 election.
The cathedral began filling early this morning as mourners took their seats. Among them were various dignitaries and government officials gathered to celebrate the life of the former president, who passed away at the age of 100. He remains the longest-living former president in U.S. history.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were President Joe Biden, along with president-elect Donald Trump. Former President Barack Obama, George Bush, and Bill Clinton were also present. At the family’s request, President Biden delivered the eulogy for Carter. This marks a rare occasion, as the last time all former heads of state, including Donald Trump, gathered for an event was at the funeral of George H.W. Bush in December 2018. Since then, this will be the first time all four leaders have met in a one-on-one setting.
To pay tribute to Carter, President Biden proclaimed today a National Day of Mourning, with all flags being flown at half-mast in remembrance of the former president.
Jimmy Carter’s casket arrived at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday for a military tribute. A series of memorial services were held at the Carter Presidential Center in Atlanta and in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. Politicians and the public were invited to pay their respects ahead of today’s funeral. Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, joined the crowd to honor the life of the former president.
After today’s state funeral, the body will be returned to Georgia for a private ceremony and laid to rest in his final resting place in Plains.
Early Life and Family of Jimmy Carter
Carter was born in Georgia on October 1, 1924, and had three siblings. His father was a farmer, and his mother a shopkeeper. His parents named him James Earl Carter Jr. He graduated from the U.S. Navy in 1946 and briefly worked in a nuclear submarine program before quitting to run the family farm.
This is the same year he married his wife, Rosalynn, with whom he remained married for 75 years until her passing in 2023. Together, they had three sons and a daughter.
Jimmy Carter’s Presidency and Legacy
Carter served one term in office and was actively involved in resolving the Middle East crisis between Israel and Egypt. However, his presidency was not without challenges, particularly due to the poor economic situation. He faced growing unpopularity during his term, and the Iran hostage crisis became the final blow, making his last year in office especially difficult.
In an ironic turn of events, Carter became one of the most beloved former presidents after leaving office. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian efforts. Following his White House years, he dedicated himself to charity work. In his final days, he spent time in hospice care due to old age and declining health.