All Of It: A Presidential Historian Remembers Jimmy Carter

Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Jonathan Alter, Author of His Very Best: Jimmy Carter A Life
Release Date: January 9, 2025

Introduction

In this poignant episode of ALL OF IT by WNYC, host Alison Stewart delves into the life and legacy of the late President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 on December 29. Featuring an in-depth conversation with renowned historian and filmmaker Jonathan Alter, the episode revisits Carter's multifaceted life, exploring his presidency, personal relationships, and enduring impact on global culture and politics.

Early Life and Upbringing

Jonathan Alter begins by correcting common misconceptions about Carter's origins. Contrary to popular belief, Carter grew up on a farm in Archery, Georgia, not Plains, Georgia, as many sources suggest. This rural upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills essential for his later roles.

[02:47] Jonathan Alter:
"There’s a conventional wisdom about Jimmy Carter, which is unsuccessful president, great, inspiring former president. And I just thought that was way oversimplified."

Carter's father, James Earl Carter, was a strict disciplinarian who nicknamed him "Hotshot," a term reflecting both pride and paternal pressure. His mother, Lillian Gordy Carter, was a nurse whose dedication influenced Carter’s later commitment to global health.

[05:36] Jonathan Alter:
"Carter was a man who had three smiles: the big one in public, the tight-lipped angry smile in private, and the genuine warm smile beneath that."

Personal Life and Relationships

Alter highlights the profound relationship between Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, emphasizing their deep emotional connection. Through intimate letters exchanged during Carter’s naval service, readers gain insight into their enduring love and mutual support.

[11:46] Jonathan Alter:
"The letters are the most steamy, intimate love letters exchanged between a future President and First Lady in American history."

Rosalynn Carter's influence extended beyond their marriage, playing a pivotal role in policy areas such as mental health and age discrimination. Their partnership continued robustly in the post-presidency, collaborating on Habitat for Humanity projects and global initiatives.

Presidency and Foreign Policy

Carter's presidency was marked by significant achievements and challenges. Jonathan Alter discusses Carter's groundbreaking Camp David Accords, which facilitated peace between Egypt and Israel, showcasing Carter's adeptness in diplomacy.

[19:27] Jonathan Alter:
"President Carter was the first leader anywhere in the world who set a global standard for how other governments should treat their own people."

However, Carter's tenure was also overshadowed by the Iran Hostage Crisis, which severely impacted his reelection campaign. Alter attributes Carter's foreign policy legacy to his emphasis on human rights, despite instances of hypocrisy, such as his support for the Shah of Iran and Ferdinand Marcos.

[24:14] Jonathan Alter:
"Carter wanted to send a message the US would no longer turn a blind eye to dictatorship or global injustices."

Carter's efforts to normalize relations with China laid the foundation for the current US-China bilateral relationship, demonstrating his forward-thinking approach to international relations.

Challenges and Reelection Loss

The episode explores the multifaceted reasons behind Carter's loss in the 1980 presidential election. Beyond the immediate issues of the hostage crisis and economic struggles, Alter points to broader political shifts that transformed the American political landscape.

[38:14] Jonathan Alter:
"American history is cyclical, and Jimmy Carter was kind of a speed bump on the transition from left to right that was going on in the 1980s."

Carter's inability to fully navigate the evolving conservative ascendancy and the changing dynamics of the Southern states contributed to his electoral defeat against Ronald Reagan.

Post-Presidency and Legacy

Jonathan Alter emphasizes Carter's transformative impact as a former president through the establishment of The Carter Center, which has made significant strides in global health, democracy promotion, and conflict resolution.

[40:38] Jonathan Alter:
"He revolutionized the post-presidency. Before that, you'd go on corporate boards, you'd give speeches. Carter felt like he wanted his library to be more than just a place to collect his papers and have a museum."

The Carter Center's successes, such as eradicating guinea worm disease and preventing conflicts in Haiti and North Korea, underscore Carter's enduring commitment to humanitarian efforts.

Alter also discusses the evolving perception of Carter over time, noting a growing appreciation for his integrity and contributions, contrasting with the earlier stigmatization by political adversaries.

[48:19] Jonathan Alter:
"Jimmy Carter is held in much higher esteem today than he was 30 years ago. The revisionism of Carter is underway."

Conclusion

The episode concludes by reflecting on Jimmy Carter's extraordinary life, marked by resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of what he believed was right. Jonathan Alter portrays Carter as a deeply complex individual whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.

[46:15] Jonathan Alter:
"He is enormously complicated and there is a layered quality to him that I found fascinating... He has led an epic American life."

As the U.S. Air Force Band performs "Going Home," listeners are left with a profound appreciation for Carter's enduring impact on both American culture and global affairs.

Notable Quotes

• Jonathan Alter on Carter's Complexity:
  "[His aides] said that he had three smiles: the big one in public, the tight-lipped angry smile in private, and the genuine warm smile beneath that." [05:36]

• On Human Rights Legacy:
  "Carter was the first leader anywhere in the world who set a global standard for how other governments should treat their own people." [19:27]

• On Post-Presidency Achievements:
  "He revolutionized the post-presidency... The Carter Center has been very effective and has changed the expectations for what a former president can do." [40:38]

• On Evolving Legacy:
  "Jimmy Carter is held in much higher esteem today than he was 30 years ago. The revisionism of Carter is underway." [48:19]

Listener Takeaway:
Jimmy Carter's life exemplifies the profound impact one individual can have through steadfast commitment to integrity, humanitarianism, and the relentless pursuit of peace and justice. His legacy serves as a beacon for future leaders and individuals striving to make meaningful changes in the world.