The 39th president of the United States, James Earl “Jimmy” Carter Jr., has passed away at the age of 100, as announced by the Carter Center. He had been in hospice care since February 2023, following the death of his wife, Rosalynn Carter, in November 2023.
One of Carter’s sons, James Earl “Chip” Carter III, described his father as a hero who believed in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. Carter’s influence extended beyond his family, as he brought people together through common beliefs.
Raised in rural Georgia in a peanut-farming family, Jimmy Carter had a deep love for music, which he carried with him throughout his political career. His passion for music served as a cultural bridge and a point of connection with colleagues and constituents, showcasing the power of music as a unifying force.
Carter’s political journey began in 1962 when he won a seat in the Georgia State Senate. His early exposure to gospel music in church shaped his view of music as a universal language that transcends race and brings people together. In his political career, Carter was a vocal advocate for civil rights and stood against racial segregation.
As part of the New South movement in the 1970s, Carter’s home state of Georgia was a hub for influential musicians like James Brown, Ray Charles, and the Allman Brothers. Carter’s support for racially integrated rock bands like the Allman Brothers reflected his belief in the universal right to dignity and free expression.
Carter’s legacy as a leader who championed unity and equality continues to inspire people around the world. His love for music, combined with his dedication to social justice, left a lasting impact on American politics and culture.
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