Jimmy Carter is popularly known as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981. He also served as the 76th governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975, and as a Georgia state senator from 1963 to 1967. As we look at his biography, we will also take a look at Jimmy Carter’s net worth and the properties he has accumulated over the years.
ALSO READ: Jimmy Carter Children: Meet Amy Carter, Donnel Carter, Jack Carter, James Carter
Carter’s father, James Earl Carter Sr., was a successful businessman and a community leader. He ran a general store and invested in farmland, contributing to the prosperity of Plains, a small boomtown of 600 people at the time. Despite the challenges posed by the Great Depression, the Carter family benefited from New Deal farming subsidies, allowing them to weather the economic storm.
As a young student at Plains High School, Carter’s diligence and love for learning set him apart. He had a fondness for reading and excelled academically. However, a popular anecdote suggests that his bid for valedictorian was derailed when he and his friends skipped school in a hot rod. Although Carter’s truancy was mentioned in a local newspaper, it remains unclear whether he would have otherwise achieved the top honour.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Carter was an active participant in extracurricular activities. He played basketball for the Plains High School team and joined the Future Farmers of America, which fueled his lifelong interest in woodworking. These experiences fostered Carter’s sense of teamwork, discipline, and community involvement, qualities that would later define his political career.
Carter’s journey to the presidency was filled with challenges and moments of doubt. When he announced his presidential campaign in 1974, he faced fierce competition from sixteen other candidates, including more nationally recognized politicians. With only two per cent name recognition, Carter was dubbed “Jimmy Who?” by his opponents. Undeterred, he embarked on a grassroots campaign, emphasizing his name and vision for change.
Against all odds, Carter secured the Democratic nomination and went on to win the presidency in 1976. His inaugural address reflected his commitment to addressing domestic inequality and promoting optimism. One of his first acts as president was to fulfil a campaign promise by granting unconditional amnesty to Vietnam War-era draft evaders.
However, Carter’s presidency was marked by significant challenges. The country faced an economic malaise, characterized by persistent inflation and recession. In 1979, an energy crisis added to the nation’s woes. Despite these difficulties, Carter demonstrated a determined approach to international relations. He successfully negotiated the Camp David Accords, facilitating peace between Israel and Egypt. Additionally, he signed the SALT II nuclear arms reduction treaty with Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev, promoting global stability.
Unfortunately, Carter’s final year in office was overshadowed by the Iran hostage crisis, which played a significant role in his defeat in the 1980 election to Ronald Reagan. In recent years, whistleblowers have alleged that individuals associated with the Reagan campaign extended the crisis to diminish Carter’s chances of reelection.
Beyond his political career, Carter has continued to be an advocate for humanitarian causes. His post-presidential years have been marked by extensive involvement in international peacekeeping and disease eradication efforts through his organization, the Carter Center. He has been a vocal proponent of human rights and has dedicated himself to resolving conflicts worldwide.
In recent times, Carter’s health has become a concern. In 2023, he experienced hospital stays related to bleeding in his brain and a urinary tract infection. Following these health challenges, Carter made the decision to receive hospice care at his home in Plains. He asked President Joe Biden to deliver his eulogy, a testament to the enduring friendship and respect shared between the two leaders.
Jimmy Carter Net Worth: How Much Is He Worth?
Carter’s net worth in 2023 is currently estimated at around $10 million. As a former President he earns an annual pension of $207,800.
