Donald Trump once called Jimmy Carter a “nice man” but a “terrible president.”

Jimmy Carter’s presidency has often been overshadowed by his post-White House legacy as a global humanitarian and advocate for democracy. Carter’s life and career, which spanned a century, remain a subject of debate. His critics, including Donald Trump, have often labeled his presidency as a period of national malaise, but this narrative overlooks significant accomplishments that continue to resonate today.

Carter’s policies, especially in energy and economic deregulation, had far-reaching impacts, demonstrating that even a single term in office can leave a lasting legacy. His initiatives in energy independence and deregulation of industries like airlines and trucking reshaped the American economy, providing frameworks still relevant in contemporary policy discussions.

In foreign policy, Carter’s decisions laid the groundwork for future triumphs and challenges. While Ronald Reagan is often credited with winning the Cold War, Carter’s strategic investments in advanced military technology and his bold decision to boycott the 1980 Moscow Olympics in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan showcased a less-acknowledged resolve.

His approach to international relations, emphasizing diplomacy and human rights, stands in stark contrast to the combative style of leaders like Trump. Carter’s presidency offers lessons in balancing idealism with pragmatism, a balance modern leaders would do well to consider.

Carter’s Middle East diplomacy represents one of his most enduring achievements. The Camp David Peace Accords, signed in 1978, brokered a historic peace between Israel and Egypt, ending decades of hostilities. Though the agreement failed to address the Palestinian issue fully, it demonstrated the possibility of achieving peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

This success provides a model for contemporary leaders grappling with similar challenges. For instance, Trump, in his efforts to forge new coalitions between Arab states and Israel against Iran, might find inspiration in Carter’s persistent negotiation and ability to unite disparate parties under a common cause.

Carter also played a pivotal role in shaping the U.S.-China relationship. While Nixon opened the door to China, Carter’s administration formalized diplomatic ties in 1979, facilitating economic and cultural exchanges that defined bilateral relations for decades. This decision required severing official ties with Taiwan, a contentious move that set the stage for America’s strategic balancing act in the region.

Trump’s approach to China, marked by confrontation and an assertive stance on Taiwan, diverges sharply from Carter’s vision of engagement. Yet, Carter’s recognition of China’s rising importance in global affairs offers a template for navigating this complex relationship.

The Panama Canal Treaties of 1977, another cornerstone of Carter’s presidency, transferred control of the canal to Panama, addressing growing anti-American sentiment in Latin America and preempting potential military conflicts. While the treaties were controversial, they reflected Carter’s commitment to long-term stability over short-term dominance. 

Trump’s recent criticisms of the canal arrangements, including unfounded claims about Chinese control, highlight the enduring sensitivity of Carter’s decisions. Revisiting these agreements risks reigniting geopolitical tensions Carter sought to defuse.

Carter’s presidency was deeply shaped by the Iranian hostage crisis, which many view as the defining failure of his tenure. The crisis underscored the complexities of dealing with revolutionary regimes and the limits of diplomatic power. 

A failed rescue mission exacerbated perceptions of incompetence, contributing to Carter’s electoral defeat in 1980. This experience offers a stark reminder of the risks involved in high-stakes foreign policy, lessons that remain relevant as leaders like Trump navigate relations with an increasingly volatile Iran.

Reflecting on Carter’s life and presidency reveals a leader deeply committed to principles of integrity, empathy, and foresight. His presidency, though criticized, set the stage for many of the geopolitical and domestic policies that define contemporary governance. For modern leaders, Carter’s legacy serves as both a guide and a warning, illustrating the complexities of leadership in a rapidly changing world. 

His humility and moral conviction, often perceived as weaknesses, underscore the enduring value of principled governance. As history continues to evaluate his contributions, Jimmy Carter’s presidency remains a testament to the profound impact of thoughtful leadership in shaping the world.