History of Jimmy Carter in Timeline
"James Earl Carter Jr., the 39th US president, served from 1977 to 1981. A Democrat, he previously served as Georgia's 76th governor and state senator. At 99, he is the oldest living former US president and the longest-lived in US history, known for his post-presidency humanitarian work."
October 1, 1924: Jimmy Carter's Birth
On October 1, 1924, Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, was born in Plains, Georgia.
1937: Beginning of High School
Jimmy Carter began attending Plains High School in 1937.
1941: Starting College at Georgia Southwestern
Jimmy Carter began his undergraduate studies in engineering at Georgia Southwestern College in 1941.
1941: Graduation from Plains High School
Jimmy Carter graduated from Plains High School in 1941, after attending since 1937.
1943: Acceptance into the Naval Academy
In 1943, Jimmy Carter received an appointment to the United States Naval Academy.
July 7, 1946: Marriage to Rosalynn Smith
Jimmy Carter married Rosalynn Smith on July 7, 1946, at the Plains Methodist Church, which was Rosalynn's family's church.
1946: Start of Carter's Naval Deployments
From 1946 to 1953, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter lived in various locations due to his deployments in both the Atlantic and Pacific fleets.
1946: Naval Academy Graduation and Marriage
In 1946, Jimmy Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and married Rosalynn Smith.
1946: Naval Academy Graduation and Marriage
Jimmy Carter graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in 1946 and married Rosalynn Smith shortly after.
1947: Commissioned as Ensign
Jimmy Carter graduated 60th in his class from the Naval Academy in 1947, receiving his commission as an Ensign.
1948: Beginning of Submarine Training
Jimmy Carter began his officer training for submarine duty in 1948.
1949: Promotion to Lieutenant Junior Grade and Simulated War Patrol
In 1949, Jimmy Carter was promoted to Lieutenant Junior Grade and participated in a simulated war patrol on the USS Pomfret to the western Pacific and Chinese coast.
1951: Assignment to USS K-1 and Qualification for Command
In 1951, Jimmy Carter was assigned to the USS K-1, a diesel/electric submarine, where he qualified for command and held various positions including executive officer.
December 12, 1952: Response to NRX Reactor Accident
On December 12, 1952, Jimmy Carter was ordered to Chalk River Laboratories in Canada to assist in the shutdown of the NRX reactor following a partial meltdown.
1952: Involvement in Navy's Nuclear Submarine Program
In 1952, Jimmy Carter became involved with the Navy's developing nuclear submarine program, working under Captain Hyman G. Rickover.
1952: Reagan Defeats Carter in Landslide Victory
Ronald Reagan won the 1980 presidential election in a landslide against incumbent President Jimmy Carter, marking the first Republican control of the Senate since 1952.
March 1953: Nuclear Power Plant Operation Course
In March 1953, Jimmy Carter started a six-month course on nuclear power plant operation at Union College in Schenectady, New York.
October 9, 1953: Leaving Active Duty in the Navy
Jimmy Carter left active duty in the Navy on October 9, 1953, to take over the family peanut business after his father's death. He continued to serve in the inactive Navy Reserve until 1961.
1953: End of Carter's Naval Deployments
Jimmy Carter's period of deployments with the Navy, spanning from 1946 to 1953, came to a close, marked by various moves for him and Rosalynn.
1954: Brown v. Board of Education and Racial Tensions
In 1954, the Supreme Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education ignited racial tensions in Plains. While Jimmy Carter personally supported integration, he often kept his views private to avoid conflict.
1961: Leaving the Navy Reserve
Jimmy Carter concluded his service in the Navy Reserve in 1961, having served in an inactive capacity since 1953, leaving with the rank of lieutenant.
1961: Advocacy for Integration
By 1961, as a member of the Baptist Church and chairman of the Sumter County school board, Carter became more vocal in his support for integration.
1962: Georgia State Senate Campaign and Election Fraud
In 1962, Carter ran for an open Georgia State Senate seat. Despite initially trailing in the vote count, a subsequent investigation revealed widespread voter fraud orchestrated by Joe Hurst, the Quitman County Democratic Party chairman. In a new election, Carter secured victory as the sole Democratic candidate.
1964: Planning for Political Future and Re-election to the State Senate
Following Bo Callaway's election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1964, Carter considered challenging him. After securing re-election to the state Senate, Carter initially planned a House run but switched his focus to the governor's race when Callaway decided to run for governor.
1966: Gubernatorial Election and Political Setback
Carter ran for governor of Georgia in 1966 but lost the Democratic primary. Though his third-place finish forced a runoff, his opponent Lester Maddox ultimately won the governorship, a result seen as a setback for Carter.
October 1969: UFO Sighting Report
Jimmy Carter reported sighting an unidentified flying object (UFO) in October 1969. He filed reports with both the International UFO Bureau and the National Investigations Committee On Aerial Phenomena detailing the event.
1970: Gubernatorial Campaign and Controversial Strategies
In the 1970 Georgia gubernatorial election, Carter adopted a more modern campaign style but also employed controversial tactics, including appealing to both black voters and supporters of segregationist George Wallace.
January 12, 1971: Inauguration and Declaration Against Discrimination
On January 12, 1971, Carter was sworn in as the 76th governor of Georgia. His inaugural address included a bold statement declaring an end to racial discrimination, which surprised many and alienated some of his segregationist supporters.
July 8, 1971: Establishment of Georgia Human Rights Council
On July 8, 1971, during an appearance in Columbus, Georgia, Carter announced his plan to create a Georgia Human Rights Council to proactively address potential racial conflicts.
July 13, 1971: Budget Deficit Reduction Measures
In a news conference on July 13, 1971, Carter announced spending cuts across state departments to address a projected $57 million budget deficit by the end of fiscal year 1972.
1971: National Governors Conference and Anti-Busing Resolution
At the 1971 National Governors Conference, Carter joined George Wallace in sponsoring an anti-busing resolution, further highlighting his complex stance on race and integration.
1971: Amy Carter's Nanny, Mary Prince
Mary Prince, an African American woman who had been wrongly convicted of murder and later pardoned, became the nanny for Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter's daughter, Amy, around 1971. Prince continued in this role for much of Carter's presidency. Notably, Carter had requested to be designated as Prince's parole officer, which helped facilitate her employment at the White House.
January 13, 1972: Legislative Requests for Funding
On January 13, 1972, Carter requested that the state legislature approve funding for early childhood development programs, prison reforms, and back taxes owed to state employees.
January 1972: Government Reorganization Plan
In January 1972, Carter introduced a plan to streamline the state government. Despite initial resistance, the plan was approved, consolidating approximately 300 agencies into 22.
March 1, 1972: Reapportionment Plans and Policy Initiatives
On March 1, 1972, Carter hinted at a possible special legislative session if reapportionment plans were rejected by the Justice Department. He also advanced several reforms, including equitable school funding, support for mentally disabled children, and expanded educational opportunities for prisoners.
1972: Positioning for a Presidential Run and the Democratic National Convention
Barred from seeking re-election as governor, Carter shifted his focus to national politics, including participating in the 1972 Democratic National Convention. He attempted to appeal to conservative Democrats opposed to George McGovern's candidacy but ultimately did not gain significant traction.
January 31, 1973: Anti-Busing Stance and Death Penalty Reinstatement
Carter expressed support for a constitutional amendment to prohibit busing for school integration during a televised appearance with Florida Governor Reubin Askew on January 31, 1973. Following the Supreme Court's ruling in Furman v. Georgia (1972), he signed a revised death penalty statute, a decision he later came to regret.
April 1973: Trilateral Commission Appointment
On David Rockefeller's recommendation, Jimmy Carter was appointed to the Trilateral Commission in April 1973.
May 1973: Watergate Scandal Warning
In May 1973, Carter cautioned his party against politicizing the Watergate scandal. He believed that President Nixon's isolation from the American people and secretive decision-making contributed to the scandal.
June 30, 1973: Meeting Elvis Presley
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter first met Elvis Presley on June 30, 1973, prior to one of Presley's performances in Atlanta. They remained in contact, speaking by phone two months before Presley's unexpected death in August 1977.
December 12, 1974: Presidential Campaign Announcement
Jimmy Carter formally announced his presidential campaign on December 12, 1974, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. His speech highlighted themes of domestic inequality, optimism, and change.
December 1975: Indonesia Invades East Timor
In December 1975, Indonesia invaded and occupied East Timor, initiating a period of human rights violations. Despite this, the Carter administration continued to view Indonesia as a valuable ally in the context of the Cold War.
March 1976: Front-runner Status
By mid-March 1976, Carter emerged as the front-runner, surpassing other presidential nominees by a significant margin and even exceeding incumbent President Gerald Ford in some polls.
April 1976: Campaign Statements and Controversial Remark
In April 1976, Carter made a controversial remark about preserving the "ethnic purity" of neighborhoods while intending to support open housing laws. He opposed government-mandated integration of neighborhoods. During his campaign, he advocated for public financing of congressional campaigns, the creation of a federal consumer protection agency, a separate cabinet-level department for education, a peace treaty with the Soviet Union to limit nuclear weapons, a reduced defense budget, tax increases for higher earners alongside reductions for lower and middle-income taxpayers, Social Security Act amendments, and a balanced budget by the end of his first term.
July 15, 1976: Selection of Running Mate and Presidential Debates
On July 15, 1976, Carter selected U.S. Senator Walter Mondale as his running mate. Carter and Ford participated in three televised debates, marking the first U.S. presidential debates since 1960.
November 2, 1976: Presidential Election Victory
Jimmy Carter won the presidential election against Gerald Ford on November 2, 1976, albeit by a narrow margin.
November 1976: Playboy Interview and Controversial Remarks
In the November 1976 issue of Playboy, released before the election, Carter's interview with Robert Scheer sparked controversy. His candid remarks about lust and adultery, along with his acceptance of profanity, ignited a media frenzy and raised concerns about blurring the lines between politicians' public and private lives.
November 22, 1976: Post-Election Visit to Washington D.C.
On November 22, 1976, Carter made his first visit to Washington, D.C., after being elected president. He met with key government officials, including the director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Secretary of Defense, and President Ford.
1976: Popularization of "Born Again" and Appeal to Evangelicals
During the 1976 American presidential campaign, Jimmy Carter, an evangelical Christian himself, resonated with voters disillusioned by the scandals of the Nixon Administration. He is often credited with bringing the term "born again" into wider use in American vocabulary.
1976: 1976 Presidential Election
Jimmy Carter won the 1976 presidential election. Exit polls indicated that many voters held Gerald Ford's pardon of Nixon in 1974 against him. Carter was viewed as sincere, honest, and well-meaning.
1976: Presidential Election Victory
In 1976, Jimmy Carter, relatively unknown outside of Georgia, won the U.S. presidential election against incumbent Gerald Ford.
January 4, 1977: Addressing Conflicts of Interest
On January 4, 1977, Carter announced his decision to place his peanut business in the hands of trustees to avoid potential conflicts of interest during his presidency.
January 20, 1977: Inauguration and Amnesty for Draft Evaders
Jimmy Carter was inaugurated as the 39th president of the United States on January 20, 1977. One of his first actions was fulfilling his campaign promise of granting unconditional amnesty to Vietnam War draft evaders.
February 8, 1977: Carter Urges Soviet Union to Join Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
On February 8, 1977, President Jimmy Carter revealed he had appealed to the Soviet Union to collaborate with the United States in establishing a comprehensive test ban treaty. This treaty aimed to halt all nuclear weapons testing, both underground and in the atmosphere, for a significant period.
February 23, 1977: Press Conference on Congressional Relations
On February 23, 1977, Carter stated during a press conference that conflict with Congress was 'inevitable,' but he noted a growing sense of cooperation and meetings with members of both parties.
March 9, 1977: Carter Reiterates Interest in Gradual Troop Withdrawal from South Korea
During a news conference on March 9, 1977, President Jimmy Carter publicly reaffirmed his commitment to a gradual withdrawal of US troops from South Korea. He expressed his desire for South Korea to eventually possess sufficient military strength to defend itself from potential North Korean aggression.
April 1977: Mandatory Health Care Cost Proposal
In April 1977, President Carter put forth a proposal for mandatory health care cost controls, which passed in the Senate but was defeated in the House.
April 18, 1977: "Moral Equivalent of War" Speech
In a televised address on April 18, 1977, Carter characterized the ongoing energy crisis as the "moral equivalent of war." He urged Americans to conserve energy.
May 26, 1977: Carter Asserts South Korea's Defense Capabilities
On May 26, 1977, during a news conference, President Jimmy Carter expressed his belief that South Korea could effectively defend itself with a reduced number of American troops in the event of a conflict. This statement reflected Carter's ongoing efforts to reduce the US military presence in the region.
June 1977: Presley's Phone Call for a Pardon
In June 1977, Jimmy Carter received a phone call from Elvis Presley, who was seeking a presidential pardon for George Klein. Klein was facing indictment for mail fraud at the time and was later convicted of conspiracy. According to Carter, Presley was nearly incoherent during the call due to the influence of barbiturates. While Presley called the White House several more times, this marked their last conversation.
June 23, 1977: Address at Democratic National Committee Dinner
At a fundraising dinner for the Democratic National Committee on June 23, 1977, Carter highlighted the good working relationship that had developed with Congress, contrasting it with the previous eight years of partisanship.
August 4, 1977: Establishment of the Department of Energy
On August 4, 1977, President Carter signed the Department of Energy Organization Act of 1977, creating the Department of Energy as a new cabinet-level position. This marked the first new cabinet department in eleven years.
August 1977: Elvis Presley's Death and Carter's Statement
Following Elvis Presley's death in August 1977, Jimmy Carter issued a statement acknowledging Presley's significant impact on American popular culture. He described Presley as having "changed the face of American popular culture."
September 21, 1977: Bert Lance Resigns Amidst Controversy
On September 21, 1977, Bert Lance, director of the Office of Management and Budget, resigned from the Carter administration following allegations of improper banking activities before his tenure.
October 4, 1977: Carter Addresses African Officials at the United Nations
Addressing African officials at the United Nations on October 4, 1977, President Carter expressed the United States' desire to see a strong, free, and prosperous Africa with as much government control as possible in the hands of its people, highlighting their joint efforts in resolving the Rhodesian (Zimbabwe) question.
November 15, 1977: Carter Pledges Continued Positive Relations with Iran
On November 15, 1977, President Jimmy Carter publicly pledged his administration's commitment to maintaining positive relations between the United States and Iran. He characterized the existing relationship as "strong, stable, and progressive."
December 31, 1977: Carter Calls Iran an "Island of Stability" Under the Shah
On December 31, 1977, President Jimmy Carter referred to Iran under the Shah's rule as an "island of stability." He attributed this stability to the perceived support and affection of the Iranian people for their leader.
1977: Advocacy for Dylan Thomas Memorial
During a state visit to the UK in 1977, reflecting his interest in poetry and particularly the works of Dylan Thomas, Jimmy Carter put forward the suggestion that Thomas should be honored with a memorial in Poets' Corner at Westminster Abbey.
1977: Appointment of Alfred E. Kahn to the Civil Aeronautics Board
In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed Alfred E. Kahn to lead the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) as part of a push for deregulation of the airline industry.
1977: Failed Attempt at Comprehensive Arab-Israeli Peace Settlement
In 1977, President Carter's attempt to broker a comprehensive peace settlement between Israel and Arab nations, including reconvening the 1973 Geneva conference, was unsuccessful.
January 1, 1978: President Carter Visits Iran
President Carter's visit to Iran concluded on January 1, 1978, less than a year before the overthrow of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
January 12, 1978: Press Conference on Energy Reform
On January 12, 1978, during a press conference, Carter described the discussions about his energy reform proposal as 'long and divisive and arduous,' stating that they hindered other national issues that needed addressing.
February 1978: Approval Rating Drops Below 50%
Jimmy Carter's approval rating, initially above 50%, dropped below this mark in February 1978 and continued to decline, primarily due to economic issues and a decline in energy and oil production.
February 28, 1978: Carter Advocates for Cabinet-Level Education Department
On February 28, 1978, from the White House, President Carter advocated for the creation of a cabinet-level education department, arguing that education was too important to be scattered among various government entities.
April 3, 1978: Carter Visits Nigeria to Improve Relations
On April 3, 1978, President Carter concluded his visit to Nigeria, the first by a U.S. president, with the aim of improving relations. He reiterated the United States' interest in convening a peace conference on Rhodesia involving all parties, stating that the U.S. was making progress.
April 11, 1978: News Conference on Legislative Challenges
On April 11, 1978, Carter expressed disappointment at a news conference over the difficulty Congress had in passing the energy reform bill, noting that he never expected it would still be unresolved a year after proposing it.
April 21, 1978: Carter Announces Reduction of US Troops in South Korea
On April 21, 1978, President Jimmy Carter announced a planned reduction of US troops stationed in South Korea. This decision, aiming to decrease the American military presence by two-thirds by the year's end, was attributed to the lack of support from Congress for a compensatory aid package for the South Korean government.
April 27, 1978: Communist Coup in Afghanistan
On April 27, 1978, a communist coup led by Nur Muhammad Taraki overthrew the government in Afghanistan, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape and raising concerns in the West.
September 1978: Camp David Accords
In September 1978, President Carter invited Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin to Camp David, resulting in the Camp David Accords. While not achieving a complete settlement, the accords led to Egypt formally recognizing Israel and the establishment of an elected government in the West Bank and Gaza, ending the war between Israel and Egypt.
October 15, 1978: Approval of Energy Legislation
On October 15, 1978, Congress approved Carter's energy legislation after considerable deliberation and modification. The measure deregulated natural gas sales, addressed pricing disparities, and created tax credits to encourage energy conservation and the use of non-fossil fuels.
October 24, 1978: Airline Deregulation Act Signed into Law
On October 24, 1978, President Carter signed the Airline Deregulation Act, aiming to reduce government control over airline fares, routes, and market entry, allowing market forces to determine these factors while maintaining the FAA's regulatory powers over airline safety.
December 1978: Carter Announces Intention to Recognize PRC and Sever Ties with Taiwan
In December 1978, President Carter announced the United States' intention to formally recognize the People's Republic of China (PRC) and establish full diplomatic relations starting January 1, 1979. This decision involved severing ties with Taiwan, including the revocation of their mutual defense treaty.
1978: Airline Deregulation Act Gains Momentum
The push for deregulation of the airline industry, supported by economists, think tanks, and even some in the industry, gained significant legislative traction in 1978.
1978: US Military Aid to Indonesia Peaks
In 1978, during Jimmy Carter's presidency, US military assistance to Indonesia reached its highest point. This increase in aid contradicted Carter's own policy of responsible arms sales, which aimed to avoid exacerbating conflicts.
1978: Federal Emergency at Love Canal
In 1978, Carter declared a federal emergency in Love Canal, Niagara Falls, NY, leading to the evacuation of over 800 families due to toxic waste. This event prompted the creation of the Superfund law.
1978: Unsuccessful Compromise on Healthcare with Ted Kennedy
During 1978, President Carter's attempts to reach a compromise with Senator Ted Kennedy on healthcare legislation were unsuccessful, with Carter later stating that Kennedy's disagreements hindered his plans for a comprehensive American healthcare system.
January 1, 1979: Formal Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with the People's Republic of China
On January 1, 1979, the United States formally established full diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China (PRC) under President Carter, marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy.
January 1979: Shah of Iran Leaves Iran for the Last Time
In January 1979, facing increasing internal unrest and a deteriorating political climate, the Shah of Iran, battling cancer, departed his country for the last time. This marked a turning point in US-Iran relations, as the Shah's departure paved the way for the Iranian Revolution.
February 8, 1979: Carter Administration Unveils Education Department Plan
On February 8, 1979, the Carter administration released the details of its plan to establish a Department of Education, expressing confidence in securing enough support for its enactment by June.
March 1, 1979: Submission of Gasoline Rationing Plan
On March 1, 1979, Carter submitted a standby gasoline rationing plan at Congress's request.
May 10, 1979: House Votes Against Gas Rationing Plan
On May 10, 1979, the House voted against granting Carter authority for a standby gas rationing plan. The next day, Carter expressed shock and embarrassment over the vote, criticizing House members for prioritizing local interests over national responsibility.
May 16, 1979: Senate Votes to Lift Sanctions Against Rhodesia
On May 16, 1979, the U.S. Senate voted to lift economic sanctions against Rhodesia. This decision was seen by some in Rhodesia and South Africa as a potentially fatal blow to the joint diplomatic efforts pursued by the United States and Britain in the region for the previous three years, as well as any potential compromise between the Salisbury government and guerrilla forces.
June 1979: Private Health Insurance Coverage Proposal
In June 1979, President Carter proposed a plan to provide private health insurance coverage, viewing it as a step forward in American healthcare following President Truman's designation of healthcare as a basic right and the introduction of Medicare and Medicaid under President Johnson.
June 18, 1979: Carter and Brezhnev Sign SALT II Treaty
On June 18, 1979, President Jimmy Carter and Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev signed the Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty II (SALT II). This treaty, a result of prolonged negotiations, aimed to curb the growth of both countries' nuclear arsenals, a key aspect of Carter's foreign policy.
July 1, 1979: Carter and Park Chung Hee Discuss US-South Korea Relations
From June 30 to July 1, 1979, President Jimmy Carter met with South Korean President Park Chung Hee at the Blue House in Seoul. The two leaders engaged in discussions regarding the relationship between their countries and Carter's policy of global tension reduction.
July 1979: Approval Rating Reaches 28%
In July 1979, Jimmy Carter's approval rating reached a low of 28% due to economic woes and the ongoing energy crisis.
July 1979: CIA Collaboration with Pakistan's ISI
In July 1979, the CIA began providing non-lethal assistance to the Afghan mujahideen through Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) as a response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
July 15, 1979: Crisis of Confidence Speech
On July 15, 1979, Carter delivered a nationally televised address, identifying a 'crisis of confidence' among Americans. This speech, later called the 'malaise speech,' received mixed reactions as some felt he did not emphasize his efforts to address the energy crisis.
July 25, 1979: News Conference Amid Energy Proposal Opposition
On July 25, 1979, Carter called on supporters of his energy program to urge Congress to act, amidst widespread opposition. The New York Times noted a 'crisis of confidence' between Congress and the President, threatening his legislative agenda.
October 1979: Special Counsel Clears Carter in Loan Investigation
In October 1979, Special Counsel Paul J. Curran announced that there was no evidence to support allegations that Carter's 1976 presidential campaign benefited from misdirected funds from the National Bank of Georgia.
October 22, 1979: Shah of Iran Admitted to US Hospital
On October 22, 1979, the ailing Shah of Iran was granted entry into the United States for medical treatment at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. This decision by the Carter administration further fueled anti-American sentiment in Iran.
November 4, 1979: Iranian Students Seize US Embassy in Tehran
On November 4, 1979, a group of Iranian students, aligned with the Muslim Student Followers of the Imam's Line and supportive of the Iranian Revolution, seized control of the US Embassy in Tehran. This action resulted in the hostage crisis, with 52 American diplomats and citizens held captive for over a year.
November 1979: Ted Kennedy Announces Presidential Candidacy
Ted Kennedy announced his candidacy for president in November 1979, challenging incumbent President Carter for the Democratic nomination.
December 24, 1979: Soviet Invasion of Afghanistan
On December 24, 1979, driven by concerns over instability in Afghanistan under Hafizullah Amin's rule, the Soviet Union launched a military invasion. This action led to the execution of Amin and the installation of Babrak Karmal as the new leader, deepening Cold War tensions.
December 28, 1979: President Carter Authorizes Lethal Aid to Afghan Resistance
On December 28, 1979, President Carter signed a presidential finding that authorized the CIA to provide lethal military aid to the Afghan mujahideen resisting the Soviet intervention.
1979: Deregulation of the American Beer Industry
In 1979, President Carter deregulated the American beer industry, making it legal for the first time since the beginning of Prohibition in 1920 to sell malt, hops, and yeast to American home brewers.
1979: Soviet Intervention in the Second Yemenite War
In 1979, the Soviet Union's intervention in the Second Yemenite War, backing South Yemen, raised concerns in the Carter administration. This event, along with the ongoing Iranian Revolution, contributed to a more assertive stance towards the Soviet Union in Carter's foreign policy.
January 7, 1980: Chrysler Corporation Bailout
On January 7, 1980, Carter signed the Chrysler Corporation Loan Guarantee Act of 1979, providing $3.5 billion in aid to bail out the struggling company.
January 1980: Carter Revokes Sino-American Mutual Defense Treaty
In January 1980, following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan and amidst rising tensions with the USSR, President Jimmy Carter made the significant foreign policy move to unilaterally revoke the Sino-American Mutual Defense Treaty with the Republic of China (ROC). This decision aimed to improve relations with mainland China, which was then under the control of the People's Republic of China (PRC).
January 23, 1980: President Carter Announces Sanctions on Soviet Union
In response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, President Carter delivered a televised speech on January 23, 1980, announcing sanctions on the Soviet Union, including a grain embargo and a boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow.
April 7, 1980: Carter Imposes Economic Sanctions on Iran
On April 7, 1980, in response to the ongoing hostage crisis in Iran, President Jimmy Carter issued Executive Order 12205, imposing economic sanctions against Iran. This move demonstrated a hardening stance against Iran and signaled Carter's commitment to securing the release of the hostages.
April 24, 1980: Operation Eagle Claw Fails to Rescue Hostages in Iran
On April 24, 1980, the Carter administration launched Operation Eagle Claw, a covert military operation aimed at rescuing the American hostages held in Tehran. The mission ended in failure, resulting in the deaths of eight US servicemen and the destruction of two aircraft. The disastrous outcome significantly damaged Carter's presidency and led to the resignation of Secretary of State Cyrus Vance.
June 1980: Approval Rating Plummets to 33%
By June 1980, amidst criticism for his handling of the Iran hostage crisis, Carter's approval rating slumped to 33%. This coincides with Ronald Reagan becoming the front-runner in the 1980 election.
November 1, 1980: Carter Highlights Head Start Expansion and Support for Migrant Children's Education
On November 1, 1980, President Carter highlighted his administration's expansion of the Head Start program, adding 43,000 children and families, and his efforts to extend the program to migrant children, mentioning ongoing work with Senator Bentsen and Kika de la Garza to secure funding for school construction in border districts to accommodate the increasing number of Mexican schoolchildren residing legally in the United States.
1980: CIA Concludes Iranian Hardliners Exploited Hostage Crisis
According to a declassified CIA memo from 1980, Iranian hardliners, particularly Ayatollah Khomeini, strategically exploited the hostage crisis to undermine President Jimmy Carter's chances of re-election in November 1980. They aimed to portray Carter as weak and ineffective on the world stage, thereby bolstering their own revolutionary agenda.
1980: Carter and Mondale Nominated at Democratic National Convention
Carter and Mondale secured the Democratic nomination at the 1980 Democratic National Convention in New York City.
1980: Loss to Ronald Reagan in Presidential Election
In 1980, Jimmy Carter lost his re-election bid to Ronald Reagan in a landslide.
1980: US Expands Support for Afghan Mujahideen
In 1980, the Carter administration initiated a program to arm the Afghan mujahideen through Pakistan's ISI and secured matching funds from Saudi Arabia.
1980: 1980 Presidential Election
Jimmy Carter lost his reelection bid to Ronald Reagan in the 1980 election. Reagan projected self-confidence, while Carter's temperament was seen as serious and introspective. Economic issues, the Iran hostage crisis, and a perceived lack of Washington cooperation contributed to Carter's portrayal as a weak leader.
1980: Post-Presidency Activities Positively Received
While Jimmy Carter's presidency received mixed reception, his peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts after leaving office have been lauded, making him one of the most successful ex-presidents.
January 1981: Carter's Legacy on Arab-Israeli Conflict
By January 1981, when Carter left office, historian Jørgen Jensehaugen argues that he was in a peculiar position, having tried to deviate from traditional U.S. policy in the Middle East but ultimately fulfilling its goals: breaking up the Arab alliance, sidelining the Palestinians, building an alliance with Egypt, weakening the Soviet Union, and securing Israel.
January 20, 1981: American Hostages Released in Iran
On January 20, 1981, the American hostages held at the US Embassy in Tehran were released, coinciding with the inauguration of Ronald Reagan as President of the United States. This marked the end of the 444-day long Iran hostage crisis.
September 1981: Carter Engages in Middle East Diplomacy
Carter's post-presidency diplomacy began in September 1981 with a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin.
1982: Ranked 10th Worst President
In a 1982 Chicago Tribune survey of historians and scholars, Jimmy Carter was ranked the 10th worst U.S. president.
1982: Founding of The Carter Center
Jimmy Carter established The Carter Center in 1982. This non-governmental, non-profit organization focuses on promoting human rights and alleviating suffering globally. The center's work has spanned over 80 countries and encompassed diverse initiatives aimed at improving people's lives.
1982: Realization of Dylan Thomas Memorial
The memorial for Dylan Thomas in Poets' Corner at Westminster Abbey, which Jimmy Carter had advocated for during a 1977 state visit to the UK, was realized in 1982.
March 1983: Carter Continues Middle East Diplomacy with Egypt and PLO
Carter's diplomatic efforts in the Middle East continued in March 1983 with a tour of Egypt, where he met with members of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).
1984: Receives Golden Plate Award
Jimmy Carter received the American Academy of Achievement's Golden Plate Award.
1984: Criticism of Handling of Beirut Hostage Crisis
Carter condemned the Reagan administration's handling of the 1984 Beirut hostage crisis, where four American businessmen were not successfully rescued.
1984: Endorsement of Walter Mondale
Carter endorsed Walter Mondale for the Democratic nomination in the 1984 presidential election and criticized the Reagan campaign.
1985: Criticism of Strategic Defense Initiative
Carter criticized Reagan's support for the Strategic Defense Initiative in 1985.
1986: Jimmy Carter Library and Museum Opens
The Jimmy Carter Library and Museum opened.
1987: Criticism of Reagan Administration
In 1987, Carter frequently criticized the Reagan administration's actions in the Middle East and stated his inability to maintain peace in the region.
1988: Prediction of George H.W. Bush Nomination
In the 1988 presidential election, Carter ruled himself out as a candidate and predicted that George H.W. Bush would be the Republican nominee.
January 16, 1989: Comment on Reagan's Media Honeymoon
On January 16, 1989, Carter told former President Ford that Reagan had enjoyed a media honeymoon, suggesting that his successor would not be as fortunate.
1989: Soviet Withdrawal from Afghanistan
In 1989, after years of struggle against the US-backed mujahideen, the Soviet Union withdrew from Afghanistan.
1991: Honorary Member of Phi Beta Kappa and Elected to American Philosophical Society
Jimmy Carter was made an honorary member of Phi Beta Kappa at Kansas State University and elected to the American Philosophical Society.
1992: Support for Bill Clinton and Criticism of Ross Perot
During the 1992 presidential election, Carter spoke favorably of Bill Clinton and criticized Ross Perot, who was running as an independent.
1994: Carter Assists Clinton in North Korea Peace Mission
In 1994, former President Carter assisted President Bill Clinton in a peace mission to North Korea, during which Carter negotiated an understanding with Kim Il Sung.
1998: USS Jimmy Carter Submarine Named
The U.S. Navy named the third and final Seawolf-class submarine USS Jimmy Carter, in honor of Carter's service as a submarine officer.
March 1999: Visit to Taiwan
In March 1999, Carter visited Taiwan and met with President Lee Teng-hui, where he commended Taiwan's advancements in democracy, human rights, economy, culture, science, and technology.
2000: Endorsement of Al Gore
Carter endorsed Al Gore days before the 2000 presidential election and later voiced his opinion that Gore won, despite Bush's victory.
2000: Renunciation of Southern Baptist Convention Membership
In 2000, after the Southern Baptist Convention decided to bar women from becoming pastors, Jimmy Carter publicly renounced his membership. He expressed his belief that women should have complete equality in serving Christ within the church.
2002: Nobel Peace Prize Awarded
In 2002, Jimmy Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize for his humanitarian work and efforts to advance human rights through the Carter Center.
2002: Awarded Nobel Peace Prize
Jimmy Carter received the Nobel Peace Prize. This was partially seen as a response to President George W. Bush's threats of war against Iraq and Carter's criticism of the Bush administration.
2004: Endorsement of John Kerry
In the 2004 presidential election, Carter endorsed John Kerry and spoke at the Democratic National Convention.
2006: Publication of "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid"
In 2006, Jimmy Carter released his book "Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid," which became a New York Times Best Seller. The book sparked controversy due to Carter's characterization of Israel's actions in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip as a form of apartheid. Carter defined apartheid as the "forced separation of two peoples in the same territory with one of the groups dominating or controlling the other." In subsequent remarks, he stated that Israel's policies, in his view, constituted a form of apartheid even more severe than that which had existed in South Africa.
2006: Criticism of Israel's Policies
In 2006, Carter publicly expressed his disapproval of Israel's domestic and foreign policies, including its actions in Lebanon, the West Bank, and Gaza, despite maintaining his support for the country.
May 2007: Criticism of Bush Administration's Foreign Policy
In May 2007, Carter criticized the Bush administration's foreign policy, calling it the "worst in history" and comparing it to Richard Nixon's tenure.
July 2007: Joining The Elders
In July 2007, Carter joined Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg to announce his participation in The Elders, a group focused on peace and human rights.
2007: Favorability Rating at 69%
A 2007 Gallup poll showed that Jimmy Carter had a 69% favorability rating.
2007: Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album
In 2007, Jimmy Carter won his first Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for his book "Our Endangered Values: America's Moral Crisis".
2007: Founding of the New Baptist Covenant
In 2007, driven by his commitment to social justice, Jimmy Carter founded the New Baptist Covenant organization.
November 2008: Travel Attempt to Zimbabwe
In November 2008, Carter's attempt to travel to Zimbabwe was thwarted by President Robert Mugabe's government.
December 2008: Meeting with Bashar al-Assad
Carter met with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2008.
2008: Speculation of Barack Obama Endorsement
During the 2008 Democratic primaries, it was speculated that Carter would endorse Barack Obama over Hillary Clinton.
2009: Documentary Highlights Camp David Accords
The documentary "Back Door Channels: The Price of Peace" (2009) credits Jimmy Carter's efforts at Camp David in bringing about the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt.
2009: Airport Renamed in Carter's Honor
The Souther Field Airport in Americus, Georgia was renamed Jimmy Carter Regional Airport.
August 10, 2010: Securing Aijalon Gomes's Release
On August 10, 2010, Carter successfully negotiated the release of Aijalon Gomes from North Korea.
2010: Publication of "We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land"
In his 2010 book "We Can Have Peace in the Holy Land," Jimmy Carter pinpointed Israel's reluctance to withdraw from the occupied territories and its continued expansion of settlements as the primary impediments to peace in the Middle East.
June 2012: Warning About Egyptian Military
In June 2012, Carter cautioned that Egyptian military generals might seize full executive and legislative power to establish a self-serving constitution.
2012: Endorsement of Mitt Romney in Republican Primary
Carter endorsed Mitt Romney for the Republican nomination in the 2012 presidential election, believing he was the candidate most likely to ensure a victory for President Obama.
August 3, 2015: Surgery for Liver Mass
On August 3, 2015, Jimmy Carter underwent an elective surgery to remove a small mass on his liver. His prognosis for a full recovery was initially said to be excellent.
December 20, 2015: Grandson's Death
On December 20, 2015, while teaching a Sunday school class, Jimmy Carter announced that his 28-year-old grandson, Jeremy Carter, had died of unspecified causes.
2016: Progress in Combating Guinea Worm Disease
By 2016, The Carter Center, working alongside the World Health Organization, made significant strides in nearly eradicating dracunculiasis, also known as Guinea worm disease. The number of cases had plummeted to 25 from 3.5 million in the mid-1980s, according to statistics from The Carter Center.
2016: Criticism of Donald Trump and Preference for Ted Cruz
Carter was critical of Donald Trump during the 2016 Republican primary, stating he would prefer Ted Cruz, though he rebuked the Trump campaign's tactics.
2016: Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album
Jimmy Carter was awarded his second Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album in 2016 for his book, "A Full Life: Reflections at 90".
October 2017: Defense of Trump Against Media Coverage
In October 2017, Carter defended Trump, criticizing the media's coverage of him as overly harsh compared to other presidents.
2017: Disclosure of Support for Bernie Sanders
In 2017, Carter revealed that he voted for Bernie Sanders in the 2016 Democratic Party presidential primaries.
2017: Advocating for a US-North Korea Peace Treaty
Throughout 2017, amidst US-North Korea tensions, Carter recommended a peace treaty between the nations and offered to be a diplomatic envoy.
2018: Presidency Receives 55% Favorability Rating
In 2018, Jimmy Carter's presidency received a 55% favorability rating, its highest since 1980.
2018: Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album
In 2018, Jimmy Carter received his third Grammy Award for Best Spoken Word Album for his book "Faith: A Journey For All".
March 22, 2019: Longest-Lived US President
On March 22, 2019, Jimmy Carter became the longest-lived US president, surpassing George H. W. Bush.
May 13, 2019: Broken Hip
Jimmy Carter broke his hip in a fall at his home in Plains, Georgia on May 13, 2019, requiring surgery at the Phoebe Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia.
June 2019: Tenure Award from Emory University
In June 2019, Jimmy Carter's longstanding dedication to teaching at Emory University in Atlanta was formally recognized with an award of tenure. This honor acknowledged his 37 years of service to the institution.
August 2019: Honorary Chair for the World Justice Project
As of August 2019, Jimmy Carter held the position of Honorary Chair for the World Justice Project. Additionally, he had previously served as Honorary Chair for the Continuity of Government Commission.
October 19, 2019: Longest-Wed Presidential Couple
On October 19, 2019, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter achieved the distinction of becoming the longest-married presidential couple in U.S. history. Their marriage surpassed the length of George and Barbara Bush's marriage, which had held the record at 26,765 days.
November 11, 2019: Hospitalization for Brain Pressure
On November 11, 2019, Jimmy Carter was hospitalized at Emory University Hospital to relieve pressure on his brain caused by bleeding connected to recent falls.
December 2, 2019: Hospitalization for Urinary Tract Infection
On December 2, 2019, Jimmy Carter was readmitted to the hospital for a urinary tract infection.
2019: Discussion with Trump on China
In 2019, Trump discussed his concerns about China's growing strength with Carter. Carter agreed, attributing China's rise to its avoidance of armed conflicts and calling the US the "most warlike nation in history."
2020: Endorsement of Joe Biden
In 2020, Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter showed their support for Joe Biden's presidential campaign by delivering a recorded audio message endorsing him for the virtual Democratic National Convention.
January 6, 2021: Statement on the U.S. Capitol Attack
On January 6, 2021, following the U.S. Capitol attack, Jimmy Carter joined fellow former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton in condemning the event. In a statement, Carter expressed that he and Rosalynn were "troubled" by the attack, calling it "a national tragedy" and emphasizing that it did not represent the nation's true identity. He also expressed faith in the American people's ability to unite and uphold the nation's laws.
January 20, 2021: Recorded Message for Biden's Inauguration
Unable to attend Joe Biden's inauguration in person on January 20, 2021, Jimmy Carter delivered a recorded audio message for the occasion.
2021: National Historical Park Renamed
The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, established in 1987, was renamed as a national historical park.
November 2022: Opposition to Alaskan Land Swap
In November 2022, when the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit scheduled a rehearing of a case concerning a proposed land swap in Alaska, Jimmy Carter took the unusual step of filing an opinion in support of the environmental groups suing the Trump administration. The proposed swap would allow for a road through the Izembek National Wildlife Refuge, which Carter argued violated the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (Anilca), a law passed during his presidency in 1980.
February 18, 2023: Entering Hospice Care
On February 18, 2023, the Carter Center announced that following a "series of short hospital stays", Carter decided to "spend his remaining time at home with his family" in Plains and "receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention" for an unspecified terminal illness.
July 7, 2023: 77th Wedding Anniversary
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter celebrated their 77th wedding anniversary on July 7, 2023.
November 19, 2023: Rosalynn Carter's Death
Rosalynn Carter, Jimmy Carter's wife whom he married in 1946, passed away on November 19, 2023.
February 21, 2024: White House Christmas Ornament Unveiling
On February 21, 2024, the White House Historical Association revealed the 2024 White House Christmas ornament, which honored Jimmy Carter's naval service and work towards peace. Notably, this marked the first instance where the president being celebrated was present at the unveiling.
September 17, 2024: 100th Birthday Celebration Concert
The Carter Center announced "Jimmy Carter 100: A Celebration in Song", a concert to celebrate Carter's 100th birthday, to be held on September 17, 2024, at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia.