This Thursday, the United States bid farewell to former President Jimmy Carter with a state funeral held at Washington National Cathedral. President Joe Biden paid tribute, describing Carter as a man of profound decency.
Since Saturday, flags have flown at half-staff in honor of Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100. He was laid to rest in Georgia, beside his wife Rosalynn, whom he was married to for 77 years.
Funeral Procession and Attendees
The casket, draped in the American flag, departed from the Capitol, where citizens had gathered to pay their respects. It was then taken to the cathedral for the state funeral. The four living former presidents—Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama, and Donald Trump—attended the service. Trump had already paid his respects earlier in the week, alongside his wife, Melania, at the Capitol.
In a recent interview with USA Today, Biden shared that Carter had requested him to deliver his eulogy four years ago. Biden reflected on Carter’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He praised his integrity and empathy.
Carter and his Legacy
Although Carter’s presidency was limited to one term, after losing the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan, his legacy grew in the years that followed. Initially seen as inexperienced, Carter’s humanitarian efforts, including his work for peace in the Middle East and Latin America, won him widespread respect. In 2002, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his global contributions.
Carter’s administration focused on human rights, especially in Latin America, where he distanced the U.S. from oppressive regimes. He also oversaw the return of the Panama Canal to Panama. And helped re-establish diplomatic relations with Cuba under Fidel Castro’s regime.
Born in Plains, Georgia, on October 1, 1924, Carter spent most of his life in his hometown. After serving in the Navy and working on nuclear submarines, he returned to run the family’s peanut farm. His political journey began in the 1960s, ultimately leading to his presidency in 1977.
He faced challenges during his presidency. Including the Iran hostage crisis and economic struggles. But Carter remained a model of humility and compassion. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called him “a living embodiment of leadership through service and justice.”
National Day of Mourning
The country takes Thursday as a national day of mourning, with federal offices closed to honor Carter’s enduring legacy and contributions to the nation.
Keep up with the most important news of Politic World of Texas in all the platforms of Mundo Ejecutivo and in its social networks.
