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- Former President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, is being honored with a state funeral after passing away on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100.
- The funeral ceremonies include lying in state at the U.S. Capitol and a national funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral.
- Carter will be buried in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, following the official state funeral.
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Essential Context
Jimmy Carter’s state funeral began on Saturday, Jan. 4, with ceremonies in Georgia and continued with him lying in state at the U.S. Capitol. His funeral is a culmination of six days of observances honoring his life and legacy.
Core Players
- Jimmy Carter – 39th President of the United States
- Rosalynn Carter – Former First Lady, passed away in November 2023
- Judy Woodruff – PBS News special correspondent who covered the Carters since the 1970s
- U.S. Government – Conducting the state funeral and observances
Key Numbers
- 100 – Age of Jimmy Carter at the time of his death
- 6 – Days of funeral observances
- 50 million – Acres of Alaskan wilderness protected during Carter’s presidency
- 103 million – Total acres of Alaskan lands protected as national monuments
- 1978 – Year of the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt
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The Catalyst
J Jimmy Carter’s death on Dec. 29, 2024, marked the end of an era for a president known for his commitment to human rights, environmental protection, and peace initiatives.
As the longest-living U.S. president, Carter’s legacy is being celebrated through extensive funeral ceremonies and tributes across the country.
Inside Forces
Carter’s presidency from 1977 to 1981 was marked by significant domestic and foreign policy achievements. He established the Department of Education and the Department of Energy, and implemented a national energy policy to address the 1979 oil crisis.
He also made historic strides in foreign policy, notably through the Camp David Accords, which established a peace framework between Israel and Egypt.
Power Dynamics
Carter’s administration was characterized by a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. He appointed record numbers of women, African Americans, and Hispanics to federal positions, and was the first president to have gay officials at the White House.
His emphasis on human rights impacted international relations, particularly with the Soviet Union, where his stance inspired dissidents but was met with cold reception from Soviet leaders.
Outside Impact
The funeral ceremonies reflect the broader impact of Carter’s life and legacy. The lying in state at the U.S. Capitol and the national funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral are testaments to his contributions to American politics and global affairs.
The public’s ability to pay their respects during these ceremonies underscores the respect and gratitude many hold for his service.
Future Forces
As the nation looks to the future, Jimmy Carter’s legacy serves as a model for leadership and public service. His commitment to peace, human rights, and environmental protection continues to inspire new generations of leaders and citizens.
The ongoing celebrations and tributes ensure that his impact will be remembered and studied for years to come.
Data Points
- Dec. 29, 2024 – Date of Jimmy Carter’s death
- Jan. 4, 2025 – Start of state funeral ceremonies
- Jan. 9, 2025 – Date of national funeral service and burial in Plains, Georgia
- 12 days – Duration of Camp David talks leading to the Camp David Accords
- 1979 – Year of the oil crisis and national energy policy implementation
As the nation bids farewell to Jimmy Carter, his legacy as a champion of peace, human rights, and environmental protection remains a significant part of American history. The comprehensive funeral ceremonies honor not just his presidency but also his enduring impact on global affairs and domestic policy.
