By Abiola Olawale
United States witnessed a major moment of unity on Thursday as incoming US President Donald Trump, incumbent President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama and indeed all living past US presidents gathered to honour former President Jimmy Carter at his state funeral in Washington D.C. at the National Cathedral.
Trump, despite his often contentious relationship with his predecessors, was present, and notably, he and Obama were seen engaging in an extended conversation, which caught the attention of many political observers.
The New Diplomat reports that the event marked a rare convening of all living U.S. presidents.
The presence of other dignitaries included Vice President Kamala Harris, former Vice President Mike Pence, and other former presidents like Bill Clinton and George W. Bush.
During the event, Biden delivered a eulogy, praising Carter’s character, faith, and dedication to service, reflecting on their personal friendship and political journey together.
The US President emphasized Carter’s legacy not only as a president but also as a humanitarian post-presidency.
It would be recalled that Carter, who served as the 39th president of the United States from 1977 to 1981, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at the age of 100 years.
His death followed a period of health challenges, including his entry into hospice care in February 2023 after a series of hospital stays.
The New Diplomat reports that Jimmy Carter, born on October 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, was the longest surviving former United States President.
Born into a family with deep roots in Georgia, Carter grew up in a small farming town. He attended Georgia Southwestern College, and Georgia Institute of Technology and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1946.
He served in the US Navy, including in the submarine service, before returning to Georgia after his father’s death in 1953.
