Jimmy Carter (1924–2024) was the 39th president of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981, and the first president from Georgia. After a naval career and success in agribusiness, Carter became governor of Georgia (1971–1975), championing government reform and civil rights. His presidency focused on energy policy, human rights, and landmark foreign agreements, but was challenged by inflation and international crises. Post-presidency, Carter founded The Carter Center, conducted global humanitarian work, and received the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize. He remained active in public service, authoring books and contributing to disease eradication efforts until his centennial year.

Current Role:
Previous President (1977–1981)

Previous roles:
Governor of Georgia (1971–1975)
Georgia State Senator (1963–1967)

Education:
United States Naval Academy, B.S. (1946)
Graduate work in reactor technology and nuclear physics, Union College (1953)

Background:
Born 1924, Plains, Georgia
Naval officer (1946–1953), returned to run family peanut farm
Married Rosalynn Smith (1946–2023), four children

Career:
Naval submariner and nuclear program officer
Peanut farming and agribusiness owner
Local civic leader, board member for education, hospital, and library

Political positions:
Democrat
Supported civil rights, government reform, environmental conservation, and humanitarian diplomacy

Legislative achievements:
Established Departments of Energy and Education
Camp David Accords (Israel-Egypt peace treaty)
Panama Canal Treaties
Pardoned Vietnam draft evaders
Expanded diplomatic relations with China

Controversies:
Iran hostage crisis (1979–1981)
Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and 1980 Olympics boycott
Economic challenges: inflation and energy crisis
Presidential approval declined; lost 1980 reelection to Ronald Reagan