ATLANTA — Today, The Carter Center and the world celebrate the 100th birthday of former President Jimmy Carter. As the longest-living U.S. president in history, he stands as a beacon of leadership and compassion, inspiring people around the globe.
Born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter has dedicated his life to service, integrity, and human rights. Early in life, he was an active member of his beloved Plains community alongside his wife, Rosalynn, whom he married in 1946. He was elected to the Georgia State Senate in 1962 and served as Georgia’s 76th governor from 1971 to 1975. He became the 39th president of the United States in 1977 and held that office for four years. President Carter’s commitment to advancing human rights and peace globally was evident through his foreign policy accomplishments and domestic initiatives.
In 1982, President and Mrs. Carter founded The Carter Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives by advancing democracy, resolving conflicts, and eliminating preventable diseases. The Carter Center has become a leading global health and human rights organization that has positively impacted over 80 countries. The Center pioneered election observation, deploying 125 missions, and has supported the elimination of neglected tropical diseases in 22 countries. It continues to innovate, including by demonstrating how access to health services can pave the way to sustainable peace.
On Sept. 17, The Carter Center hosted a star-studded concert event at Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre to honor the music-loving former president. “Jimmy Carter 100: A Celebration in Song” brought together more than 4,000 of President Carter’s family members, friends, and biggest fans. Georgia Public Broadcasting will air a recording of the concert at 7 p.m. EDT today and at other times throughout October. The show also can be viewed on demand at gpb.org/jimmycarter100.
To help celebrate President Carter’s centennial, The Carter Center encourages friends and supporters from around the world to contribute to a digital mosaic. So far, nearly 5,000 people have submitted photos and tributes, many remarking on how he has inspired them through his exceptional life and work.
President Carter’s legacy continues to inspire hope and progress worldwide. His century of life is a testament to the power of service, and The Carter Center stands as an enduring reminder of his commitment to peace, health, and human rights.
