NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to learn more about?

SUMMARY

Former President Jimmy Carter died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2024, at his home in Plains, Georgia, surrounded by family. The 100-year-old, known for his humble beginnings and unlikely road to the White House, was the longest-living American president. Special correspondent Judy Woodruff looks back at his towering life.

View the transcript of the story (above video is 3 min.)

For a fuller look into Carter's life, watch this video (15 min.) with Judy Woodruff:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5d07wDE_Mg

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

Key terms

legacy — the long-lasting impact of a person's actions or decisions

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. When did Carter serve as president?
2. How old was Carter when he died?
3. Where did Carter grow up?
4. Why is Carter remembered for his work after his presidency?
5. What are some of the ways people have remembered Carter?

FOCUS QUESTION

What do you think President Jimmy Carter's legacy will be?

Media literacy: What aspects of Carter's life would you liked to have learned more about and why?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

Activity: Carter's legacy

Directions: In small groups, choose one of the following events or issues to research in related to Carter's presidency and life in the many decades that followed.

Using the 5 Ws + H (who, what, where, when, why, how), report back to the class the issue your group was asked to analyze and answer the questions: How do you think Carter handled the situation before him? What leadership qualities did Carter possess at the time of the event that helped him to make his decision?

1. 1976 presidential contest
2. Middle East peace negotiations
3. Restoration of full diplomatic relations with China
4. Reducing the U.S.-Soviet nuclear arsenal
5. Treaty to return Panama Canal to Panama
6. Spike in inflation
7. Energy crisis
8. Iran hostage crisis
9. 1980 presidential race
10. Diplomatic work (Bosnia)
11. Humanitarian work (Carter Center, Habitat for Humanity)
12. Meeting with former Cuban President Fidel Castro
13. Relationship with Rosalyn Carter

Note: There are many professional and personal aspects of Carter's life not on this list — feel free to research your own issue related to Carter and share with your class.

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