Jimmy Carter, 39th President

Born to Georgia peanut farmers, Jimmy Carter went on to become President of the United States. The same ambition that helped him become successful in the Navy and Governor of Georgia, gave him the determination to campaign energetically for the presidency. His famous smile, down-home ways, and his honesty and integrity gained him the respect and support of the American people in the 1977 election.

During his one term in office, he worked with leaders of many nations, striving for peaceful relations. Some of his major objectives included the Panama Canal treaty and negotiations at Camp David between Egypt and Israel.

His wife, Rosalynn, was an active first lady as she lobbied for the Age Discrimination Act, was Honorary Chairperson of the President's Commission on Mental Health, and acted as the President's emissary on a two-week trip to Latin America discussing human rights and nuclear arms control with leaders of seven nations.

President and Mrs. Carter continue their efforts of world peace and health through the Carter Center. Their diplomatic relations with developing countries in the areas of politics, agriculture and disease prevention are assisting thousands of people throughout the world. Their philanthropic pursuits in America have provided opportunities for low-income families to have homes of their own. President Clinton recognized their contributions to society in August 1999, when he awarded them the highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Recommended by Pat Johnson, who wrote:

"Jimmy Carter has character. He helped the poor. He works for peace. He makes a difference both locally and worldwide. He's a Christian. He stands for integrity, loving his fellow man,unselfishness, productivity. He is doing something with his life that will last long after he is gone. He's a great American!"