Former President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday in a small gathering with friends and family in his backyard in Plains, Georgia. This milestone makes him the first former president in United States history to reach the age of 100. Despite being in hospice care at his home since February 2023, Carter appeared alert and was wheeled out into his backyard just after noon to enjoy the festivities.
A military flyover with four fighter jets took place at 12:30 p.m. ET to mark the occasion. President Joe Biden also shared a message wishing Carter a happy 100th birthday on behalf of the Biden family and the American people. He described Carter as a moral force for the nation and the world, as well as a beloved friend.
Carter’s late wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away in November after 77 years of marriage. The former president attended her memorial service in a wheelchair, showing his resilience and strength even in the face of personal loss. Despite his age and health challenges, Carter has expressed his desire to live long enough to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris for president. Early voting in Georgia begins later this month, and Carter is determined to make it to the polls to cast his vote.
Living in home hospice care, Carter has surpassed the average length of time for patients in such a situation, which is typically 63 days according to the National Institutes of Health. Carter’s resilience and determination to continue living a meaningful life have inspired many, including the thousands of people who attended a benefit concert in Atlanta’s Fox Theatre to celebrate his 100th birthday. The event, titled “Jimmy Carter 100: A Celebration in Song,” raised funds for the international programs of The Carter Center, the foundation founded by Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter after leaving the White House.
The celebration of Carter’s 100th birthday was a historic moment, as it marked the first time people came together to celebrate the centennial birthday of an American president. The event featured performances and tributes from various stars, honoring Carter’s legacy as a humanitarian and advocate for peace and democracy.
Born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, James Earl Carter Jr. was the son of a peanut farmer and a nurse. He became the first future U.S. president to be born in a hospital. Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and served in the Navy before returning home to run the family farm. He was elected governor of Georgia in 1970 before becoming the 39th president of the United States in 1977.
During his presidency, Carter faced numerous challenges, including record-high inflation and the Iranian hostage crisis, which dominated the news during the last months of his administration. Despite these difficulties, Carter devoted his later years to humanitarian work and became more popular as a former president than he was during his time in office. He actively participated in building homes with Habitat for Humanity and traveled the world to support democracy and public health initiatives.
Carter’s dedication to service and his commitment to making a difference in the world have left a lasting impact on many. His ability to overcome personal and health challenges with grace and resilience serves as an inspiration to all who know his story. As he celebrates his 100th birthday, Carter’s legacy as a moral force and a beloved friend continues to shine brightly.
In conclusion, Jimmy Carter’s 100th birthday celebration was a testament to his enduring legacy and the impact he has had on the world. From his humble beginnings as a peanut farmer’s son to becoming the 39th president of the United States, Carter’s life has been marked by service, compassion, and a dedication to making the world a better place. As he enters his second century, Carter’s spirit and determination serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who strive to create a more just and peaceful world. Happy 100th birthday, President Carter!
