BONUS: A biography and a memoir reexamine Jimmy Carter's extraordinary life
NPR's Book of the Day
Deep Dive
What were some of Jimmy Carter's key achievements during his presidency?
Jimmy Carter's presidency saw significant accomplishments, including the deregulation of industries like airlines, natural gas, and trucking, which made travel and goods more accessible to middle-class Americans. He also passed social legislation, appointed more African-Americans and women to the federal judiciary than all his predecessors combined, and made human rights a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. Additionally, he negotiated the Panama Canal Treaty, normalized relations with China, and passed immigration reform.
Why is Jimmy Carter considered an outlier among U.S. presidents?
Jimmy Carter is considered an outlier because he defied expectations as a white Southerner who was a social liberal on race but a fiscal conservative. He came from the deeply segregated South yet championed civil rights and appointed more African-Americans and women to the judiciary. His presidency was marked by a mix of deregulation and social progress, making him a complex and unique figure in U.S. political history.
How did Jimmy Carter's views on race evolve over his lifetime?
Growing up in the Jim Crow South, Jimmy Carter had close African-American friends but initially accepted segregation as a societal norm. Over time, he became more progressive on race, especially after his naval career and the civil rights movement. He believed in equality and criticized the U.S. for backing away from its commitment to racial justice, noting a resurgence of racial tensions in recent decades.
What was the significance of Jimmy Carter's 'malaise' speech?
Jimmy Carter's 'malaise' speech, delivered in July 1979, addressed the limits of American exceptionalism and the dangers of seeking happiness through material goods. While he never used the word 'malaise,' the speech warned about societal and environmental challenges. It came during a time of economic hardship, including gas shortages and high inflation, and while it resonated with some, it also alienated others who were tired of the era's struggles.
How did Jimmy Carter's post-presidency activities shape his legacy?
Jimmy Carter's post-presidency activities significantly enhanced his legacy. He observed elections, advocated for human rights, built homes with Habitat for Humanity, and taught Sunday school well into his 90s. His work with the Carter Center focused on global issues like voting rights and disease eradication, cementing his reputation as one of the most active and impactful former presidents in U.S. history.
What was Jimmy Carter's stance on campaign finance and its impact on democracy?
Jimmy Carter strongly criticized the influence of money in politics, calling it 'legal bribery.' He argued that the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision undermined democratic ideals by allowing wealthy donors and corporations to exert undue influence over elections. He believed this distorted the legitimacy of U.S. elections and gave special benefits to major contributors at the expense of the public interest.
Shownotes Transcript