Former US President Jimmy Carter celebrates 100th birthday

Jimmy Carter, the 39th president of the United States of America, celebrated his 100th birthday on Tuesday, becoming the first US president to reach the century mark.

Carter, who began hospice care at his home more than 19 months ago, continues to defy expectations with his resilience and longevity.

Carter marked the milestone at the home he and his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, built in the 1960s in his hometown of Plains, Georgia.

The celebration included a private lunch with around 20 members of his extended family, according to reports from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

In a tribute video posted on social media, President Joe Biden praised Carter as a “beloved friend” and “one of the most influential statesmen” in American history.

“Your hopeful vision of our country, your commitment to a better world, and your unwavering belief in the power of human goodness continue to be a guiding light for all of us,” Biden said.

The White House also honored Carter’s centenary with a special display on the lawn, reading “Happy Birthday President Carter.” First Lady Jill Biden’s office organized the tribute.

Carter, a Democrat, served as president from 1977 to 1981. His time in office included significant achievements such as brokering the 1978 Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt, establishing formal diplomatic relations with China, and returning control of the Panama Canal to Panama.

However, his administration faced major challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis and an energy crisis that contributed to his 1980 election loss to Ronald Reagan.

Following his presidency, Carter remained active on the global stage, founding The Carter Center in 1982, which focused on human rights, democracy, and health initiatives.

His post-presidency work earned him a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.