MACON, Ga. — At noon on January 20, 1977, Jimmy Carter’s presidency began. It was a time of serious problems at home and abroad, and Carter served tirelessly as the 39th President of the United States.
“I, Jimmy Carter, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the office of Presidency of the United States,” Carter said on that day.
That same year, on May 13, House Resolution 4876 passed, providing more than $20 billion in general revenue for Americans to work, in hopes of ending unemployment.
“I’m very glad to sign House Resolution 4876, that provides opportunities for the American people to go back to work,” said Carter.
At the start of his Presidency, Carter announced that American troops would withdraw from South Korea. He also faced an energy crisis during his time in office, and on August 4, 1977, Carter signed the US Department of Energy Organization Act.
And nearly 40 years ago, 52 lives were saved during Carter’s Presidency.
“We’re using every available channel to protect the safety of the hostages and to secure their release,” Carter announced.
The United States freed nearly $8 billion in frozen Iran assets, calling for the release of 52 hostages.
And in September of 1977, Carter was the head of the major breakthrough for Middle East affairs.
“I saw that holy land region as a potential explosive point that might have brought about a superpower war,” he said.
Carter oversaw the agreement between Israel’s Prime Minister and Egyptian President to prevent a war from happening.
“I kept them apart, they never saw each other for 10 days, and I went back and forth. Was able to form a reasonable agreement,” he said.
It was known as the Camp David Accords.
“I’m so proud of both of you,” Carter said then.
Jimmy Carter left the White House on January 20, 1981 and many still believe he’s one of the most successful Presidents in American history.