Jimmy Carter, a Democrat, served as the 39th President of the United States from January 20, 1977, to January 20, 1981. His administration emphasized human rights, energy policy, and negotiating peace in the Middle East.
Carter's presidency is remembered for diplomatic achievements such as brokering the 1978 Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel and negotiating the 1977 Panama Canal Treaties, along with major domestic initiatives including the creation of the Departments of Energy and Education and passage of the National Energy Act.
His term was marred by economic difficulties—stagflation and an energy crisis—and by the 1979–1981 Iran hostage crisis, which eroded public confidence. After leaving office he became a prominent global humanitarian and human-rights advocate, founding the Carter Center and receiving the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
Brokered the 1978 Camp David Accords between Egypt and Israel; Signed the 1977 Panama Canal Treaties to transfer canal control; Established the Departments of Energy and Education and pushed the 1978 National Energy Act; Promoted a human-rights-centered foreign policy and negotiated SALT II; Faced the 1979–1981 Iran hostage crisis and led a failed rescue attempt; Advanced deregulation in transportation (airlines, trucking, rail)
Key highlights and dated events associated with this presidency.
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On January 21, 1977, President Jimmy Carter issued a proclamation granting a full pardon to most men who had evaded the draft during the Vietnam War era.
Jimmy Carter was sworn in as the 39th President of the United States and delivered his inaugural address, outlining a pledge to govern with integrity and to make human rights central to U.S. policy.
A joint session of Congress met to count and formally certify the Electoral College votes from the 1976 presidential election, confirming Jimmy Carter as President-elect and Walter Mondale as Vice President-elect.