As we mark the 100th birthday of Jimmy Carter, we reflect on a life and an extraordinary though brief American presidency dedicated to statesmanship, peace, and service to people.
Carter, the 39th president from 1977 to 1981 is often remembered for its moral clarity and commitment to diplomacy, setting a standard that resonates to this day. His profound contributions extend beyond his time in office, particularly in his enduring relationships with the Caribbean and his tireless work promoting health, democracy, and peace.
Carter’s peacemaking efforts are perhaps his most significant legacy. The Camp David Accords, brokered in 1978, marked a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, leading to a peace treaty between Egypt’s Anwar Sadat and Menachem Begin of Israel that has endured for decades–even in the face of a catastrophic war in Gaza that continues to expand to include Lebanon, Iran and Yemen. Cairo continues to be a valuable broker on the peacemaking side of the ledger:
President Carter’s personal involvement in these negotiations was no mere political manoeuvre; it was this statesman’s belief made manifest that dialogue could resolve even the most entrenched conflicts; that, to borrow from Churchill: “It is better to jaw-jaw than to war-war”. Carter’s approach was characterised by a willingness to engage deeply and respectfully with both sides, demonstrating that genuine statecraft often requires courage and perseverance in the teeth of adversity and conflict.
In a stark, and saddening, contrast to many of his successors, beginning with Ronald Reagan and continuing during both Democratic and Republican regimes, Carter’s presidency is notable for its commitment to peace without resorting to military action. He famously did not fire a shot in anger during his time in office—a record that stands out against the backdrop of subsequent administrations that have often turned to military intervention as a first resort. It is this restraint that exemplifies his belief that the United States should lead through example and moral authority rather than through force.
Sadly, the cynical machinations of his challenger, who engineered the delayed end of a protracted hostage drama involving Americans in Iran helped to end Carter’s administration. But the president was also undone by honesty that would not be out of place 40 years later when he adroitly diagnosed a “malaise” gripping the nation. American voters were ripe for conversion into adopting a conservative, reactionary vision of the United States that worked for Reagan’s feel-good stance on American issues and against Carter’s hard work ethic.
But it is beyond the presidency that Jimmy Carter’s grace and greatness will remain embedded in our memory. His impact continued through extensive humanitarian work. His post-presidency years have been marked by efforts to improve global health, promote democracy, and alleviate poverty. In the Caribbean, he has been involved in various initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development and supporting local communities. The Carter Centre has proved to be an honest broker and respected institution on election integrity, governance and disease eradication, particularly but not exclusively in Guyana, showcasing his commitment to improving human lives both at home and abroad.
It is in this regard that we call attention to Jimmy Carter’s engagement with the Caribbean. His focus on collaborative health initiatives and democratic support has strengthened ties with nations like Haiti. Over two decades, he has worked diligently to support Haiti’s democratic evolution and health improvements.
The Carter Center has played a crucial role in addressing public health crises in Haiti, particularly in combating diseases such as malaria and lymphatic filariasis. In 2009, he led efforts to finalise an agreement between Haiti and the Dominican Republic to eliminate these diseases—an initiative exemplifying his belief that bi-national cooperation is essential for tackling shared challenges. He also played a pivotal role in the negotiations that led to the restoration of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, who had been ousted in a military coup in September 1991.
His approach to foreign policy was unique among American presidents for a credible emphasis on human rights and democracy, particularly during a time when such ideals were often overshadowed by Cold War politics. His administration’s focus on these principles laid the groundwork for more equitable US-Latin America relations–including thoughtful engagement with Caribbean nations.
It is his post-presidency that Jimmy Carter will be best remembered for, despite our contention that history will be kinder to his presidency in the long run than the current polemical narratives suggest. His humanitarian work, in particular, extends well beyond health initiatives. His commitment to building homes through Habitat for Humanity, advocating for human rights, and promoting democratic governance across various countries, especially the turbulent years of Guyanese politics in the post-Burnham era, reflects a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all people.
This humble peanut farmer may not have endeared himself to a capricious American electorate in 1980 but he stands tall as a colossal figure in world history who proved that right is greater than might in an era where violence was praised as the midwife of political change.
As we honour James Earl Carter Jr on this milestone birthday, we celebrate not only his achievements as an American president but also his enduring commitment to peace and humanity. His life serves as an inspiration for current and future leaders, reminding us all that true greatness lies in service to others and the pursuit of peace through understanding and compassion.
His legacy is not just one of political achievements but also profound humanitarianism. In an era where political divisions often dominate the discourse, his example reminds us that diplomacy rooted in compassion and cooperation can lead to lasting positive change. This is a message that this nation, region and world would do well to heed. As we reflect on his century-long journey, we are encouraged to pursue peace, health, and justice across borders—principles that continue to resonate deeply among those who care to listen.
Among those inured to the blunt force trauma of American foreign policy and the image of the Ugly American over the last 60 years, it is the soft-spoken gentleman from Plains, Georgia, the farmer, weekend carpenter and Sunday School teacher who will be remembered as a good American who tried to do good, and succeeded.
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